Public Law 110-351, known as the Fostering Connections to Success Act, underpins the crucial practice of family search. This federal law mandates child welfare agencies across the United States to actively inform adult relatives when a child is removed from their parents’ custody. This proactive approach aims to strengthen family connections and support networks for children entering state care.
In Washington State, when a child or young person is taken from their home and placed in state care – whether through a Voluntary Placement Agreement or by court order – the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is legally obligated to notify all adult relatives within 30 days. The dedicated statewide Relative Search Unit within DCYF is responsible for identifying and reaching out to potential relatives for every child in DCYF legal custody. This applies regardless of whether the child is initially placed with relatives, other suitable adults, or in foster care. The primary goal is to explore all possible avenues of family support for the child’s well-being.
Who Qualifies as a Relative in Washington State?
Federal law allows each state to define “relative” within their child welfare systems. Washington State law, specifically RCW 74.15.020, specifies that DCYF must make diligent efforts to identify and notify all relatives within three degrees of relationship. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of family members who can be significant sources of support for a child. These relatives include, but are not limited to:
- Siblings (including adoptive and step-siblings)
- Aunts and Uncles
- Cousins
- Grandparents
- Great Aunts and Uncles
- Great Grandparents
- Great-Great Grandparents
The family search process begins with a dedicated Relative Search Specialist who conducts a thorough investigation to identify potential relatives. Utilizing available search tools and databases, each identified adult relative is sent a Relative Inquiry letter. This letter includes a questionnaire designed to confirm their relationship to the child and to understand their willingness and capacity to provide support. This initial contact is a vital step in engaging the extended family network.
Ways Relatives Can Support Children in State Care
Research consistently demonstrates that relatives are often the most beneficial resource for children who must enter state care. DCYF policy and Washington State law strongly prioritize involving relatives in supporting these children. Both federal and state regulations grant relatives the opportunity to actively participate in the planning, placement, and overall well-being of the child. The ways in which relatives can contribute are diverse and impactful:
- Providing Placement: Relatives can offer a safe and familiar home environment, either immediately or in the future, offering kinship care as an alternative to foster care with non-relatives.
- Transportation Assistance: Relatives can help with transportation to essential appointments such as visits with parents, court hearings, medical appointments, or other necessary services.
- Respite Care: Offering respite care provides temporary relief for foster parents or relatives who are currently caring for the child, preventing burnout and ensuring consistent care.
- Family History Information: Relatives can contribute valuable family history, especially when parents are unavailable. This information can be crucial in identifying any specific behavioral, health, or educational needs the child may have.
- Supporting Family Time: Relatives can assist with family time, also known as supervised visits between parents and children, providing a supportive presence and helping maintain family connections.
- Celebrating Milestones and Holidays: Including children in family celebrations, milestones, and holidays helps maintain a sense of normalcy and belonging during a challenging time.
- Identifying Additional Relatives: Relatives can be instrumental in expanding the family search network by identifying other family members who may be willing and able to offer support.
Have You Received a Family Search Inquiry Letter?
If you have received a Relative Search Inquiry Letter from DCYF, it means you have been identified as a potential relative who may be able to offer support to a child in state care. Here are important steps to take:
- Respond to the Letter: Complete the online form as soon as possible. Your response is crucial for the family search process.
- Verify Authenticity and Ask Questions: If you have questions about the letter or want to confirm its legitimacy, you can find contact information for Relative Search staff on the DCYF website.
- Contact the Specialist: Call or email the Relative Search Specialist whose contact information is provided in the letter. They can provide detailed information about how you can support and become involved in the child’s life.
It’s important to understand that family search is an ongoing process that continues throughout the duration of a child’s case until reunification with parents or another form of permanency is achieved. Your involvement as a relative can make a significant positive difference in a child’s life during a difficult time.
