Length of placements

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How long do the children stay with foster families?

Children need families the entire time they are in foster care:

  • DCF works to reunite children with their families within 12 months. The foster care ends when they rejoin their family.
  • Children who aren’t reunited with their family need a permanent home. Some foster parents adopt the child they’re fostering.
  • Some foster parents provide short-term care ranging from overnight up to 14 days. This is the Respite Services Program.

Foster care