Navigating the child welfare system can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. This resource library brings together essential Washington State tools, guides, and information to support foster, kinship, adoptive, and licensed caregivers. Whether you’re looking for your rights and responsibilities, DCYF contacts, advocacy resources, or helpful parenting tools, you’ll find quick access to the information you need—all in one convenient place.

These resources are intended to help you make informed decisions, advocate for the children in your care, and connect with the services and supports available throughout Washington State. We encourage you to bookmark this page and return often as additional resources are added.

• Become a Licensed Caregiver (Kinship & Foster Parent) – Learn about the licensing process, training requirements, and steps to become a foster parent in Washington State.
• Apple Health Core Connections – Learn about Apple Health Core Connections through Coordinated Care, which provides specialized health coverage and support services for foster and kinship families in Washington State.
• Caregiver Rights and Responsibilities – Understand your legal rights, responsibilities, and expectations as a Washington State foster caregiver.
• Children and Youth Rights in Foster Care – Learn about the rights every child and youth in foster care is entitled to while receiving services.
• DCYF Regional Map – Find your local DCYF region and identify the offices and services available in your area.
• DCYF Office Lookup – Quickly locate Washington State DCYF offices with contact information and office locations.
• DCYF Employee Lookup – Search for DCYF employees by name or position to find contact information for staff members.
• Caregiver Reimbursement & Financial Resources – Access reimbursement forms, payment information, and financial resources available to Washington State caregivers.
• DCYF Mileage Reimbursement – Submit your monthly transportation expenses for reimbursement related to approved caregiving activities.
• Caregiver Property Damage & Emergency Medical Claim – Learn how to request reimbursement for eligible property damage, emergency medical, veterinary, and third-party expenses related to a child in your care.
• Washington State Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds (OFCO) – Learn how this independent agency investigates complaints about child welfare and juvenile justice systems and allows individuals to file complaints to help protect the safety, rights, and well-being of children, youth, and families.
• Find Your Legislator – Identify your state legislators and learn how to contact them about issues affecting children and families. Foster Parent Consultation Team – Access independent support and advocacy to help resolve concerns and improve communication with DCYF.
• The Mockingbird Family – Learn about Mockingbird’s innovative support model that strengthens foster, kinship, and adoptive families through community connections.
• Prudent Parenting – Understand the Reasonable and Prudent Parent Standard and how it empowers caregivers to make everyday decisions for youth in their care.