Child Placing Agencies (CPAs) are private agencies licensed by DCYF's Licensing Division (LD). There are two types of CPAs in Washington state:
- CPAs that certify foster homes and provide caregiver support services, some of these are Tribal CPAs which serve Native children and families
- CPAs that provide private domestic or international adoption services
All must follow Washington Administrative Code Chapter 110-147.
Foster Homes Certified by CPAs
- Provide 24/7 care, in a home setting for children in out-of-home placements. Children in out-of-home placement may be in DCYF custody, tribal custody or Office of Refugees and Resettlement children.
- Share DCYF’s goal to reunify families
- Can assist families when different permanent plans such as guardianship or adoption are in the best interest of the children.
- Partner with DCYF to promote child safety, kin-first culture, and strength-based caregiver support services.
Licensing CPAs
LD is responsible for licensing CPAs and their certified foster homes. After LD issues a license, it is responsible for providing on-going technical assistance and consultation to CPAs for program improvement.
Learn more about becoming a DCYF Provider.
LD is also responsible for monitoring the CPA’s compliance with Washington Administrative Codes (WACs), Revised Code of Washington (RCWs), and policies. LD may take corrective actions as needed.
