Foster Care

Yes, there are applicant requirements. To become a foster parent, you'll meet with our foster care Recruiter and Case Manager to complete DCF paperwork, a background check, home inspection and foster parent support training opportunities. Trainings include MAPP, CPR/First Aid, other important courses/content.

It depends. Some children need care for only a few days; others may remain for months or years. On average, children stay in foster care about two years while their parents work toward reunification or another permanent plan is found.

Children in foster care often experience instability, school disruptions, and separation from siblings. Many have lived through trauma and need time, patience, and consistency to begin healing. Foster families use training and learned skills to build relationships with their foster children, and assist in the healing and growing process. 

O’Connell provides 24/7 crisis support, ongoing case management, monthly stipends, and medical coverage for children in care. You’ll also receive training and professional resources tailored to your family’s needs.

Yes. We work closely with families to match their strengths with the unique needs of each child. This includes emergency placements, sibling groups, children with specialized needs, or long-term care.

Yes. While the primary goal is reunification, some foster placements do lead to adoption when it becomes clear that a child cannot safely return home.