Resource Family Approval (RFA) requires all care providers of foster and probation children/youth and non-minor dependents be approved under the same guidelines, which closely mirror the current process for licensing of foster homes.
While foster parents are familiar with the process, this will be a new experience for relatives and fictive kin. Some of the new RFA process for relatives and fictive kin will remain the same i.e., initial home inspection, background checks and exemptions. The requirement of a “Comprehensive RFA Assessment” has been added for all caregivers and most notably includes:
- Submission of an application
- Minimum of 12 hours of pre-approval training and eight hours of annual training
- First Aid/CPR certification
- Health screening
- Three character references
- Verification of Income (i.e., pay stubs, CalWORKs, SSI, or other proof)
- TB tests for all adults in the home
- Verification of residence (i.e., rental agreement, utility bill)
- Psychosocial assessment
- Permanency assessment (satisfies adoption home study requirement)
- DMV report
- Budget submission
- Minimum of three home visits
For placements with relatives/fictive kin made on an emergency basis, the entire RFA process must be completed within 90 days of placement. It is important to note foster care funding will not be available until the RFA process has been completed, so we must support caregivers in moving through the process timely.
- Current foster homes and relative/fictive kin homes must be phased in to the RFA process by 2019
- Creative supports are being identified to assist relatives/fictive kin in completing the RFA process timely
Now that we know RFA requirements, let’s talk data next month.
Look for this monthly information to stay informed about RFA. Be sure to connect with Jennifer Pimental at jpimental@cosb.us with any questions.