Welcome to the Foster Care Resource & Support Hub
Supporting you in your role as a foster or adoptive parent.
Drop-In Info Sessions
Caitlin, our Family Support Navigator and expert on all things Hub-related, has regular drop in hours to support families in need. She also hosts monthly virtual Open Houses to show you the Hub in action. Read more.
We'd love your feedback
During 2023, we will be updating and upgrading the Hub based on your feedback. If there’s something you’d like to see that isn’t available, or you have suggestions for improvement, please let us know.
We've categorized the resources and information as carefully as possible to give you easy access to what you need.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Don't be shy about getting in touch with your Family Support Navigator, Caitlin. She's just an email or phone call away!
Interacting with DCF
- Your role as a foster parent
- Family Resource Policy (2023)
- Contacting DCF
- Chain of command; what to do when you don’t feel heard
- Other available supports
Financial
- Stipend information and payment calendar
- Mileage & Reimbursement
- PACT & WIC
- Taxes
Childcare & Respite
- Daycare support
- Occasional babysitting
- Respite options
- Informal Childcare Program
Behavioral Health
- Short-term consultation program from A Home Within
- Children's Behavioral Health Initiative
- Accessing mental health services in MA
Family Support
- Available Hub partners to support your family
- Other support opportunities in MA
- Resources for children with special needs
Medical
- Medical Social Workers
- Understanding Masshealth coverage
Legal
- Who's who in the court and legal system
- Court timelines and processes
- Resources from the Committee for Public Counsel Services
Education
- Foster parents' role in education
- Special education and foster care
- Hub Educational Specialist
Post-Adoption
- Hub Partner - Adoption Journeys
- Post-adoption subsidy & supports available
- Birth certificates, taxes, and social security cards
Youth Enrichment & Empowerment
- Local Programs
- Grants available
- Wonderfund card
Birth Families
- Family Time Visits
- Navigating relationships with birth families
- Sibling contact
Other Issues
- Adoption V. Guardianship
- 51-A filings and responses
- Fair Hearings
- Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)
The thirteen Hub program partners are featured below. Each has an introductory video or description about their services and a contact person who can assist you in accessing related supports.
If your service or organization is interested in being a Hub partner, let us know.
