{"id":351849,"date":"2016-04-04T11:02:35","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:02:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/family\/foster-care\/foster-care-funding-and-federal-programs.html"},"modified":"2025-02-24T16:32:00","modified_gmt":"2025-02-24T21:32:00","slug":"foster-care-funding-and-federal-programs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/foster-care-funding-and-federal-programs.html","title":{"rendered":"Foster Care Funding and Federal Programs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\">\n        <h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Foster Care Funding and Federal Programs<\/h1>\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/jade-yeban-j-d\/\">Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/aviana-cooper-esq\/\">Aviana Cooper, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last reviewed\n        <time>\n                            February 24, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>Foster care funding is a critical aspect of the child welfare system and child welfare agencies. These funds provide financial help for children who have been child abuse or neglect victims. They help children live in safe and stable environments. These funds promote the well-being and stability of the child.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n<p>The funding supports various services and programs. The federal government gives funding through programs such as the Social Security Act. The Title IV-E foster care maintenance program is an example of federal foster care funding. More funding may come from state and local governments, grants, and private organizations. Below you will find key information about foster care funding and federal programs.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Is Foster Care Federally Funded?<\/h2>\r\n<p>Yes, the federal government helps fund foster care programs. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/socialsecurity\/basics\/the-social-security-act-overview.html\">Social Security Act<\/a>&nbsp;contains the main sources of federal funds available to states. These funds help child welfare,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/foster-care-background-and-history.html\">foster care<\/a>, and adoption.<\/p>\r\n<p>The foster care system also relies on other resources like state funding. State agencies often offer grant programs and scholarships. States may work with nonprofit organizations and community support programs to help foster children. State funding and resources vary.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Foster Care Funding: A Brief Overview<\/h2>\r\n<p>The Children&#8217;s Bureau oversees federal child welfare policies and programs. This includes programs like Title IV-B and Title IV-E.<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/corporate.findlaw.com\/litigation-disputes\/information-memorandum-regarding-title-iv-b-of-the-social.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title IV-B of the Social Security Act<\/a>&nbsp;is a federal program funding states for various child welfare services. Services include family preservation services and child support services. They may also include adoption promotion and support and post-adoption services.<\/p>\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acf.hhs.gov\/cb\/grant-funding\/title-iv-e-foster-care\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title IV-E of the Social Security Act<\/a>&nbsp;is a federal block grant program. It gives financial help to foster care placement and independent living services for older youth. This funding supports social services for children in out-of-home care. This can include foster care and adoption.<\/p>\r\n<p>Title IV-E funds various services. Services include maintenance payments to foster care providers and adoption help. It also covers administrative costs associated with child welfare services. Title IV-E funding also gives referrals to support services and waivers for certain requirements.<\/p>\r\n<p>States have flexibility in using the funding but must meet specific federal requirements. Administrative costs for these programs are large. But, they are necessary to support case management and ensure that children receive the needed services.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Family Preservation Services<\/h2>\r\n<p>Family preservation services aim to prevent the removal of children from their homes. Family preservation services are intended for children and families at risk or in crisis. Adoptive parents can also use them. These services aim to promote family stability. Eligibility rules for family preservation services vary by state. They may depend on factors such as the child&#8217;s age and the nature of the family&#8217;s situation. The following is a list of the services the program helps:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Programs that reunite children with their biological families or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/adoption.html\">place them for adoption<\/a>&nbsp;or another arrangement.<\/li>\r\n<li>Programs to prevent the placement of children in foster care, including intensive family preservation services.<\/li>\r\n<li>Programs for follow-up services to families after a child returns from foster care.<\/li>\r\n<li>Respite care gives temporary relief for parents and other caregivers (including foster parents); respite care families sign up to take children in for a period of time to help decrease the stress on families.<\/li>\r\n<li>Services to improve parenting skills.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Family preservation services are an essential component of the child welfare system. They aim to ensure that children remain safely in their homes and receive the care and support they need to thrive. If a child is still at risk of abuse or neglect, they go into foster care.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Where Does Foster Care Funding Come From?<\/h2>\r\n<p>Foster care funding comes from various sources, such as federal, state, and local agencies. Other funding sources might include grants and initiatives. Donations from private organizations or people are also accepted.<\/p>\r\n<p>The federal government gives funds to states to manage child welfare programs. The federal government controls foster care operations. But, it&#8217;s the non-profit state-licensed organizations that receive the funding. State grant programs have their matching requirements and allocations.<\/p>\r\n<p>States are responsible for managing child protective services. They are also responsible for prevention services and mental health services. State child welfare agencies protect the safety and well-being of foster children. Caseworkers are critical in ensuring children receive good care, support, and services.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Medicaid for Foster Children<\/h3>\r\n<p>In the majority of states, foster children qualify for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/healthcare\/medicare-medicaid\/medicaid-overview.html\">Medicaid<\/a>. Medicaid offers coverage for medical, dental, and therapy services. These children are entitled to the same health benefits as those provided under the now-discontinued&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/aspe.hhs.gov\/aid-families-dependent-children-afdc-and-temporary-assistance-needy-families-tanf-overview-0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Aid to Families with Dependent Children<\/a>&nbsp;(AFDC) program.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Temporary Assistance for Needy Families<\/h3>\r\n<p>AFDC was replaced by the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/ncua.gov\/regulation-supervision\/letters-credit-unions-other-guidance\/personal-responsibility-and-work-opportunity-reconciliation-act-1996\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act<\/a>&nbsp;(PRWORA) in 1996. This created a new program:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.acf.hhs.gov\/ofa\/programs\/temporary-assistance-needy-families-tanf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Temporary Assistance for Needy Families<\/a>&nbsp;(TANF). TANF indirectly supports foster care programs by granting states more flexibility in allocating federal welfare dollars. TANF is one among many funding sources for foster care.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Chafee Grants for Foster Youth Students<\/h3>\r\n<p>The federal <a href=\"https:\/\/acf.gov\/cb\/grant-funding\/john-h-chafee-foster-care-independence-program\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chafee Program<\/a> helps older foster youth bridge the gap between high school and adulthood. Since foster children have a unique background, they might not get traditional family support like college savings.<\/p>\r\n<p>Chafee grants focus on helping current and former foster youth begin their independent adult life. Agencies often use these funds as scholarships for post-secondary education and career training programs. These grants can also support employment and housing needs. Grantees must meet the program\u2019s requirements, such as the age limit and academic status.<\/p>\r\n<h2>How Can Foster Parents Use the Funding?<\/h2>\r\n<p>Foster families can use the funding they receive to meet the needs of the foster youth in their care. This may include basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. Funding may also go to childcare, education, and other support services.<\/p>\r\n<p>Foster parents might also use the funding for social and human services. This might include counseling, mental health services, and family services. These services address the needs of foster children and their biological families.<\/p>\r\n<p>Foster families receive reimbursement for the child&#8217;s food and clothing. Some states provide a clothing voucher during the child&#8217;s first placement. Others provide clothing vouchers at the beginning of each school year. Foster parents may also receive subsidies from the state every month. The payment amount is usually based on:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>The number of foster children in one home<\/li>\r\n<li>A child&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/foster-children-medical-issues-and-children-with-disabilities.html\">medical needs<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li>A child&#8217;s age<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>Foster parents can also use the payments for:<\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li>Extracurricular activities<\/li>\r\n<li>Transportation<\/li>\r\n<li>Personal products for a foster child<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p>But, foster parents can&#8217;t rely only on subsidies for foster care funding for their foster homes. They have to prove they have a stable income before becoming&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/foster-parent-requirements.html\">foster parents<\/a>. Funding can also support guardianship help and other initiatives.<\/p>\r\n<p>Foster care funding is essential to ensure needy families receive their needed support. Funding helps prevent maltreatment. It also helps provide safe and stable homes for children in need.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Can Foster Parents Get a Housing Grant?<\/h2>\r\n<p>Though rare, some foster parents may qualify for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/state-resources.html\">housing assistance<\/a>. The availability of housing assistance like rent vouchers varies. Eligibility requirements, such as income level, still apply to foster parents. Check with your local housing agency or speak with an attorney to understand your eligibility.<\/p>\r\n<p>Housing assistance is typically a last resort. It can offer temporary relief in an emergency to keep the children in a stable environment. If a foster parent can no longer provide housing, the state may find that a new placement would be in the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/child-custody\/focusing-on-the-best-interests-of-the-child.html\"> child\u2019s best interest<\/a>. Each case is unique.<\/p>\r\n<p>States may be more lenient for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/types-of-foster-care-group-homes-and-kinship-care.html\">kinship care<\/a>. For example, a grandparent may want to raise their grandchild. Caseworkers may try to help the family find a way to stay together if housing is the only concern. Preserving family relationships is a priority of the state.<\/p>\r\n<p>The housing assistance that foster families may get is limited. For instance, foster parents do not automatically get public benefits to buy a house instead of renting an apartment. Foster parents must prove their ability to provide a suitable home before they get a placement. Stipends and grants do not count toward this basic requirement. So, a person can\u2019t become a foster parent to gain access to extra housing aid.<\/p>\r\n<h3>Housing Assistance for Foster Youth<\/h3>\r\n<p>Foster children can also seek housing assistance as they age out of the foster care system. These programs help youth <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/family\/foster-care\/aging-out-of-foster-care.html\">transition into adulthood<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n<p>The federal government funds housing through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/program_offices\/public_indian_housing\/programs\/hcv\/fyi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Foster Youth to Independence<\/a> (FYI) initiative. State agencies make federal Housing Choice Vouchers available to foster youth. They sometimes add state-level housing resources, too.<\/p>\r\n<p>For example, Washington offers aid through its <a href=\"https:\/\/dcyf.wa.gov\/services\/housing-homelessness-prevention\/foster-care\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Foster Care Housing Program<\/a> (FCHP). This program combines FYI vouchers with the state\u2019s community-based resources. Federal funding and local partnerships help foster youth afford a place to live.<\/p>\r\n<h2>Have Questions About Foster Care Funding and Federal Programs? Talk to an Attorney<\/h2>\r\n<p>Navigating federal foster care programs and child welfare funding can be complicated. If you have more questions, you should talk to an experienced professional. Some family law attorneys are very knowledgeable in child welfare services. Talk to an experienced&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/family-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">family law attorney<\/a>&nbsp;today.<\/p>\r\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g 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          class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <\/div>\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\">\n        <div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Fostering a child can involve many people and support services\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    An attorney can help you navigate the process and systems\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    You need legal help for any issue that could affect the foster placement\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>You can hire an attorney at different points in the fostering process. 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