Does the state provide any financial assistance to help care for children in foster care?
Yes. There are funds available to care for the children, based on the child's level of need. Additionally, allowances may be provided for specific occasions and needs. The Go-To Guide explains more about the funds that may be available to you: https://dcs.az.gov/foster-and-adoption/gotoguide
What financial resources are available to me?
All unlicensed kinship caregivers will automatically receive a $75 monthly stipend per child. For questions on this, please contact your DCS Specialist, or the DCS Warmline at 1-877-543-7633, Option 3.
What financial resources are available to me? TANF
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Cash Assistance will be awarded to any non-licensed foster family in most cases, regardless of the family’s income. The benefit will be based on the child(ren) being in foster care. A family is not eligible for this reimbursement in addition to the licensed foster care reimbursement. Ensure that the application notes that the family is an unlicensed foster parent. The DCS Case Manager must assist the family with the submission of the application.
More info on TANF can be found here, https://dcs.az.gov/foster-and-adoption/kinship-resources
What financial resources are available to me? Foster Care Reimbursement
You can learn about the different financial resources available for foster parents through DCS's Go-To Guide. You can find the guide here: https://dcs.az.gov/foster-and-adoption/gotoguide
What financial resources are available to me? WIC
For information on WIC, please visit: https://azdhs.gov/prevention/azwic/
What financial resources are available to me? SSI
For information on Social Security Income (SSI) benefits, please visit: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/
Where can I find help for my utilities?
For utility assistance, please visit the Arizona Department of Economic Security at: https://des.az.gov/services/basic-needs/shelter-housing/utility-assistance
What if my child damages my property or my neighbor's property?
Liability coverage may be available under certain circumstances through the state's Provider Indemnity Program. You can find more information here.
Where can I get information about TANF?
Your DCS Specialist can assist you with obtaining TANF benefits. You can find more information here.
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