Vermont Department for Children and Families Recognizes National Foster Care Month

Waterbury, Vermont - This May, the Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) recognizes National Foster Care Month by honoring foster and kinship families across the state. These families open their homes and hearts to children during difficult times, helping them feel safe, supported, and cared for.

About 700 children and youth are in DCF custody. They are supported by foster and kinship families in communities across Vermont. These caregivers care for children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. Many continue to offer guidance after youth turn 18.

"At DCF, our goal is to support families so they can stay together. Custody is always a last resort," said Aryka Radke, Deputy Commissioner. "When it is necessary, foster parents step in at critical moments, offering stability, care, and connection when a child needs it most. That support can change a child's life, and in those moments, showing up means everything."

In Vermont, 44% of children in DCF custody are placed with someone they already know. This may be a relative, a family friend, or another trusted adult. These kinship placements help children keep important relationships, stay connected to their culture, and feel more secure during a difficult time.

"Children do best with familiar, caring adults in their lives. When they cannot remain at home, kinship placements are our first choice. They are vital to keeping kids connected," said Carrie Deem, Foster Kin Care Manager.

Foster caregivers provide short-term or longer-term care while families work toward reunification. In Vermont, about half of children in foster care return home. During this time, foster families and kinship caregivers provide steady support for children and their families.

This National Foster Care Month, step forward and join Vermonters providing caring homes for children while families get the support they need-because children in your community are counting on you.

For more information about becoming a foster or kinship caregiver, or to learn how to support foster families, please visit fostercare.vt.gov.