May is Recognized as Foster Parent Appreciation Month

Illinois DCFS is celebrating May as Foster Parent Appreciation Month, honoring foster and kinship families for their dedication to the state’s most vulnerable children. Director Heidi E. Mueller highlights the vital role these caregivers play in building a child well-being system that prioritizes family and community connections. With reunification not possible in only 4% of cases, the agency relies on a network of over 6,350 licensed foster families and is actively seeking more caregivers. Robust support, including monthly stipends, specialized medical coverage, and startup funds, is provided to foster parents.

The department is actively recruiting foster families and easing the certification process for relatives through the new Relative Caregiver Certification program, part of the KIND Act. Illinois now leads the nation in kinship care, ensuring every child can grow up supported and loved. Learn more about foster opportunities at dcfs.illinois.gov.

“Our incredible foster parents, relative and kinship caregivers are our true partners as we work to transform Illinois from a child welfare system into a child well-being system,” said Illinois DCFS Director Heidi E. Mueller. “Their commitment not only helps create brighter futures for children, but it also strengthens our shared vision – that every child and youth can grow and thrive in a family.”

Visit the “Kinship in Demand (Kind Act)” website for more information. Visit the “Illinois DCFS Website to Apply to Be a Foster or Adoptive Parent.”