San Joaquin County Probation
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Resource Family Approval Program
Resource Family Approval (RFA)
All youth need and deserve a safe, loving, nurturing, accepting, and consistent place to live where they can thrive and mature. Becoming a resource family provides a home for a youth to do just that.
The Resource Family Approval Program is a caregiver approval process that a prospective foster parent, relative or non-relative extended family member (NREFM) caregiver, or adoptive family completes to be considered for potential placement of a youth or young adult (non-minor dependents from 18-21 years old).
RFA combines elements of the current foster care licensing, relative approval, NREFM, adoption, and guardianship processes into one application.
RFA Supports Commitment to Youth, Young Adults, and Families
Lifelong Relationships
RFA supports youth and young adults by providing lifelong connections and prioritizing placements with families who can offer long term support and stability from the beginning.
Training and Support
Caregivers receive training and ongoing support to meet the needs of youth, helping families build lifelong relationships.
Simplified Application Process
A new coordinated process streamlines the application, reduces paperwork, and maximize the use of staff and system resources.
RFA Approval Process
RFA is a unified, family-friendly and child-centered approval process that includes one application, one background check, combined home environment and Family Evaluation, pre-approval and post-approval training for all families.
**During an emergency situation, a youth or young adult can be placed temporarily in a relative or non-related extended family member home until full approval requirements are met.
If you are interested in becoming a Resource Family or if you would like more information about the program, please fill out the form below.