familyfoster

Familyfoster is a term used to describe a family-based approach to providing care for children who cannot be raised by their biological parents. In a familyfoster arrangement, trained adults or couples, sometimes including relatives, assume responsibility for a child's daily care, safety, and wellbeing under the oversight of a child welfare agency.

Familyfoster differs from institutional or group care by prioritizing stable home environments, ongoing family relationships, and integration with the child's community.

The process typically involves licensing of foster homes, background checks, medical and safety assessments, and ongoing training and supervision. Caseworkers coordinate placements, monitor the child's needs, and provide or arrange support services such as education, mental health care, and respite care for foster families.

Children may be placed temporarily or for longer terms, with the goal of reunification with biological parents when feasible or permanent permanency through adoption or guardianship. Outcomes are influenced by placement stability, caregiver support, and access to services. Advocates emphasize maintaining family ties, cultural continuity, and developmentally appropriate planning.

See also: foster care, kinship care, child welfare.