In cases where children are removed from the home but there is not an appropriate relative or non-relative placement available, or in cases where a relative or non-relative placement has failed, the children are typically placed in a foster home.  This placement is coordinated by LSF’s “Placement” unit. This unit, being familiar with the foster homes available to us (see Foster Home Information) is highly effective in matching the strengths and preferences of the foster homes to the requirements of the children in need of placement. Briefly, the process of placement is as follows:

1. The Protective Investigator or Case Manager submits a request for placement to the Placement Unit through use of an on-line data entry program. This request includes a brief description of the child, including any behavioral issues or special needs.

2. The Placement Unit’s Placement Specialist receives the request for placement and reviews a printed list of foster homes. This list specifies the number of beds each home is licensed for, the number of children currently placed in each home, and any other special information about the home relevant to placing a child there.

3. Once an appropriate home is located on the list, the Placement Specialist contacts that home by phone to discuss the current placement need. This discussion includes a description of the child(ren) needing placement including any behavioral or other special needs information.

4. If the foster home is willing to accept the child(ren) for placement, the Protective Investigator or Case Manager transports the child(ren) along with a Custody Letter which assigns temporary guardianship to the foster parent. A resource box is also brought to the foster home. In this box are educational, and medical records of the child(ren) along with copies of birth certificates, social security cards, and a copy of the family’s most recent case plan.

5. Once the placement has been accomplished, the Placement Specialist submits an on-line Change Form through use of the on-line data entry program. This form advises LSF's financial department (ICWSIS) of the placement and assures appropriate payments to the foster home.

Supervision of the child in a foster home is similar to supervision described on the previous page under the heading of “Relative/non-relative placement and supervision.”