OPEN YOUR HEART AND YOUR HOME. I'm proud to say that I recruited another Foster Parent THIS MONTH! We celebrated at the 25th Annual Foster & Adoptive Parent Recognition Brunch at the Sheraton Framingham. If you want to know more or get involved, drop me a line 781-321-0406.

290 CHILDREN ARE REPORTED DAILY TO DCF AS VICTIMS OF NEGLECT OR ABUSE IN THE STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Foster care is the term used for a system in which a minor who has been made a ward is placed in the private home of a state certified caregiver referred to as a "foster parent".

The state via the family court and child protection agency stand in loco parentis to the minor, making all legal decisions while the foster parent is responsible for the day to day care of said minor. 

Foster care is intended to be a short term situation until a permanent placement can be made:

• Reunification with the biological parent(s)
  • When it is deemed in the child's best interest. This is generally the first choice.
  • Preferably by a biological family member such as an aunt or grand parent.
  • If no biological family member is willing or able to adopt, the next preference is for the child to be adopted by the foster parents or by someone else involved in the child's life (such as a teacher or coach). This is to maintain continuity in the child's life.
  • If neither above option are available, the child may be adopted by someone who is a stranger to the child.

Foster care placement

Children may enter foster care via voluntary or involuntary means. Voluntary placement may occur when a biological parent or lawful guardian is unable or unwilling to care for a child. Involuntary placement occurs when a child is removed from their biological parent or lawful guardian due to the risk or actual occurrence of physical or psychological harm. In the US, most children enter foster care due to neglect.