The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) works in partnership with families and communities to keep children safe from abuse and neglect. When parents cannot ensure the safety of children in their home, DCF provides out-of-home care based on the child’s individual needs. The case review process guides decisions made on behalf of children in DCF custody. Your time will help a family in need of community support.
The Foster Care Review Unit makes decisions regarding children who are placed in foster care for six months or longer, assessing how well their needs are being met and what progress has been made toward establishing them in a permanent living situation. A Volunteer from the Community is one member of the 3-person panels that make these decisions.
To date, there are over 9000 children placed in care throughout the state and the need for the communities' engagement in helping the Department make decisions on behalf of children in care is ever-present.
Please note, we continue to conduct Foster Care Reviews remotely. Additional information about the Volunteer Case Review Program can also be found more here: https://www.mass.gov/dcf-foster-care-review-volunteer and our online application here: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-to-be-a-volunteer-case-reviewer. Feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback..