Child Placing Agencies (CPAs) are private agencies licensed by DCYF's Licensing Division (LD). There are two types of CPAs in Washington State:
- CPAs that certify foster homes and provide caregiver support services, some of these are Tribal CPAs which serve Native children and families
- CPAs that provide private domestic and/or international adoption services
Foster Homes that are Certified by CPAs
- Provide 24/7 home setting care to children in out-of-home placements. Children in out-of-home placement can be in DCYF custody, tribal custody or Office of Refugees and Resettlement children.
- Share DCYF’s goal to reunify families
- Can assist families when different permanent plans such as guardianship or adoption are determined to be in the best interest of the children.
- In partnership with private and tribal CPAs, DCYF strives to promote child safety, kin-first culture, and strength-based caregiver support services.
Licensing CPAs
LD is responsible for licensing CPAs and their certified foster homes. After the LD issues a license, it is responsible for providing on-going technical assistance and consultation to CPAs for program improvement.
Additionally, the LD is responsible for monitoring the CPA’s compliance with Washington Administrative Codes (WACs), Revised Code of Washington (RCWs), and policies. LD may take corrective actions as needed.
The 2024 WA CAP implementation for group care providers and CPA licenses is delayed due to:
- Group Care Negotiated Rule Making (NRM) process and revisions to WAC 110-145
- Federal rules that allow DCYF to develop new kinship licensing standards
It is important to note that CPA staff and the foster homes they certify will continue to use WA CAP and the delay will not affect them.
CPA and Group Care Agency licensing in WA CAP will be reassessed January 2026.