Information for Youth in Foster Care

Your Rights as a Foster Child

If you are in foster care or living with a kinship caregiver, you have rights. These rights are here to help keep you safe, healthy, and supported. Here's what you should know:

  1. You have the right to live in a safe, healthy home - and in a place that isn't more strict than it needs to be.
  2. You have the right to be free from abuse, including physical, sexual, or emotional harm. No one should hurt you or scare you.
  3. You have the right to healthy food, clothes that fit and match the weather, and a proper bag for your things (not trash bags).
  4. You have the right to medical, dental, and eye care - as well as help for mental health or substance use if needed.
  5. You have the right to live with relatives (kinship care) if that is the best and safest option for you.
  6. You have the right to be placed in a home that fits your needs, and if possible, to live with your brothers and sisters.
  7. You have the right to know about any medicine you're given, in a way that makes sense for your age.
  8. You have the right to talk privately with people who support you, like your caseworker, lawyer, guardian ad litem (GAL), CASA volunteer, or probation officer.
  9. You have the right to stay in touch with your siblings, unless the court says otherwise or it's not safe.
  10. You have the right to speak up if your rights are being violated, including calling the Foster Care Ombudsman Division or the Department of Human Services. You won't get in trouble for making a complaint.
  11. You have the right to keep in contact with past caregivers or important adults in your life, unless a judge or caseworker decides it's not in your best interest.
  12. You have the right to take part in religious activities of your choice.
  13. You have the right to go to school and take part in sports, clubs, or other activities, depending on what your caregiver can support and what's right for your age.
  14. You have the right to work or build job skills, in ways that are safe and right for your age.
  15. You have the right to go to Independent Living Program classes, if you're old enough.
  16. You have the right to attend court hearings and, if the judge allows, to speak directly to the judge.
  17. You have the right to be treated fairly, without discrimination or bullying.
  18. You have the right to learn about your education options and get help understanding them.
  19. You have the right to get a copy of your rights and have them explained to you by your caseworker, lawyer, and guardian ad litem.
  20. You have the right to be cared for in a way that's respectful and thoughtful, like a caring parent would provide.
  21. You have the right to meet with your caseworker at least once a month.

If you feel like your rights aren't being respected or something doesn't feel right, you can talk to the Foster Care Ombudsman Division or your caseworker. Your voice matters - and you should not be punished for speaking up.