Tribal Foster Care

Since time immemorial, Tribal communities have cared for their children when families need help. In Tribal communities, it is common for extended family and community members to help raise and support children.

Today, Tribal communities and families play an important role in helping Tribal children in foster care. DCYF is looking for Tribal families across Washington to become foster parents. This helps children who cannot safely stay at home remain close to their family, friends, community, and culture. 

Why Native Foster Homes Matter

  • In Washington, American Indian and Alaska Native youth make up about 1% of the total population, but about 4% of children in foster care. (The AFCARS Report: Washington, 2023)
  • In Tribal communities, family often includes more than just parents and siblings. It can also include grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other community members.
  • Research shows that children do better physically and emotionally when they stay with relatives or Tribal members. (Bell, T., & Romano, E., 2017)
  • Tribal foster homes help children stay connected to their culture, traditions, and community.
  • Washington is one of the top 10 states with the highest number of Tribal children in foster care. There are 29 federally recognized Tribes in Washington state. (Puzzanchera & Taylor, 2021)

Types of Foster Care

Kinship Care

Kinship care means a child is cared for full-time by relatives or trusted adults which includes adults defined by the Tribe. This could include grandparents, adult siblings, aunts, uncles, neighbors, community members, or close family friends.

On July 1, 2025, new Kinship Licensing Standards started in Washington. These changes make it easier for kinship caregivers to get licensed and receive support. Licensed caregivers can get training, resources, and safety items for their homes, such as baby gates, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors. 

You can learn more on the Kinship Care Overview webpage.   

General Foster Care

General foster care means caring for a child who is not related to you. Foster parents provide a safe and caring temporary home. They help children stay in their school and stay connected to their parents, siblings, culture, and community.

Tribal foster homes are especially needed for Tribal children who cannot stay with family or Tribal community members.

You can learn more on the Become a Foster Parent webpage. 

Foster Care Licensing Options

If you decide to become a licensed foster parent, you can choose how you want to get licensed. You can work with:

  • DCYF
  • A Child Placing Agency (CPA)
  • A Tribal Child Placing Agency

Some families choose a CPA or Tribal CPA because they may offer extra support and may better understand their culture.

State Licensing

  • You work directly with DCYF licensing staff.
  • Caregivers speak up for their own needs and services. 

Child Placing Agency or Tribal CPA

  • You work with staff from a private agency or Tribal Nation.
  • The agency helps advocate for your family’s needs and services.
  • The agency provides or coordinates services.
  • Families often receive more personalized support, including culturally responsive services. 

Resources