Thanks for considering adoption and/or fostering. Please feel free to contact us at 1-800-861-8838.

Contact Information

Connecticut Association of Foster and Adoptive Parents, Inc.

1-888-543-4376 (KIDHERO)

kidhero@cafap.com

Para información en español, contacte:

Connecticut Association of Foster and Adoptive Parents, Inc.

1-888-543-4376 (KIDHERO)

kidshero@cafap.com

Licensing Requirements for Foster or Adoption

Connecticut’s children are primarily in care because of abuse and/or neglect. They come from all ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds as well sibling groups. Ages range from infancy – 18 years.

As a prospective parent, you are expected to be a role model for the child, develop positive self-esteem, assist in the transportation to/from medical appointments and provide educational support. The minimum qualifications are:

• Attained age 21;
• Able to provide a loving, supportive home environment;
• Have sufficient income to care for own financial needs;
• Must be of good character (local police and FBI check required);
• Able to attend 10-week training program (modified programs might be available);
• Must have a completed homestudy;
• Two or more bedrooms. Foster children can share the same bedroom with a child of like-age and sex, but not the same bed.

Couples, including partners, are required to become licensed and attend all training sessions.

The benfits to adoption are:

• No legal fees for public adoptions;
• Financial/medical benefits are available for the child until adoption is finalized;
• Eligibility for adoption tax credit.

Parent Support Groups

Most families want the support of others who have had the experience of fostering and/or adoption. A current list of all support groups in Connecticut can be found at www.cafap.com/support.htm.

Agency Contact and Orientation Information

Detailed information about foster care licensing requirements, orientation sessions and children available for adoption can be found at www.ct.gov/dcf.

A number of private agencies have contracts with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) to provide foster care for children who have extraordinary emotional/behavioral and/or medical needs. Foster parents approved by these agencies receive on-going support and training. These agencies operate under somewhat different treatment models so expectations, training and monthly reimbursement to foster parents may vary. The following private agencies have programs for children with exceptional needs and would welcome you to contact them.

Information on Children

On any given day, there are over 4,000 children in foster care; many who are in need of permanent homes. To learn more about some of children available for adoption, please visit www.ct.gov/dcf or call 1.800.842.6347. Out-of-state residents call or e-mail karen.miskunas@ct.gov.