Foster care services

Support a child and their family

Support a child and their family

We knew you’d come. Because being there for your family, with love, patience and understanding is what you do. But, sometimes, family is more than just your own. It can be a child in your neighborhood who needs a safe and secure home, if only for a short time. It can be another family in your community that needs your family to step up for them in a time of need.

There are thousands of children who need care in Connecticut. And hundreds of families who need your help so they can become whole again.

If you would do anything for family, you’re qualified. If you want to help your community, you’ve come to the right place. If you want to make sure every child feels loved and secure, you’re ready to foster. And we will help make it happen.

  • Adoption 
    Are you thinking about adopting a child? Learn about this special opportunity to provide a permanent, safe, and loving home.
  • Foster care and kinship care 
    Learn how you can help a child or children who need someone to care for them. They’re from families that need help.
  • Heart Gallery 
    Visit the Heart Gallery to meet some kids who need someone like you!

Foster care and kinship care

tutoring homeschooling

Open your family to a child or siblings

Foster parents and relatives who care for children make a huge difference in their lives. We’re here to help you learn about the care system and how we’ll support you.

Adoption

family embracing outdoors

Thinking about adopting a child?

Today is a good day to start learning how we can help you complete your family. Find out about the many ways we can support you and a child on this journey.

Supports for caregivers and families

portrait of family on sofa

Get the help you want

The Department of Children and Families and its partners are here to support you as much as you want. We can help you care for your child (and yourself!) whether they’re newborns, kids, or teens.
  • CAFAF 
    The Connecticut Alliance of Foster and Adoptive Families (CAFAF) can help you all along your journey.
  • Adoption Assistance Program 
    Talk to specialists at UConn Health who can refer you to providers and resources, help you find support groups, and much more.
  • C-KIN Navigator Program 
    ConnectiKIN (C-KIN) connects you to a wide range of supports and resources to help you raise a child who thrives.

Foster and adoptive parents in CT

foster and adoptive families in Connecticut

Hear real life stories and learn how to start your journey

Watch videos featuring foster and adoptive families in Connecticut. Parents share their journey and describe how DCF helped them create a family or care for children in need. They include Mayor Arunan Arulampalam of Hartford and his wife Liza’s foster care and adoption journey.

You’ll also find informational and public service videos including Ready to Foster in English and Spanish.

Go to DCF’s Foster Care and Adoption play list on YouTube  

Resources for service providers and case workers