Respite Care Provider

Short-Term & Respite Care Guidelines

At times, Resource Parents may need temporary relief or may be unable to provide care due to scheduling conflicts or unforeseen events. Children’s Hope Foster Family Agency (CHFFA) supports the use of short-term, alternative, and respite care—each offering approved, temporary supervision options for foster youth.

Whenever possible, Resource Parents should notify the agency social worker at least one week in advance of any changes in care. Temporary care arrangements must not conflict with restrictions from the child’s county social worker, probation officer, court order, or CHFFA policy.

Types of Temporary Care

Children’s Hope offers flexible caregiver options when resource parents need temporary support. Short-term care (under 24 hours) requires no background check and may involve caregivers under 18. Alternative care (up to 72 hours) also doesn’t require a background check unless the caregiver regularly stays in the home and must be 18 or older. Respite care (over 72 hours) requires a background check, certification, and approval from CHFFA or the county, and must be provided by a certified or approved caregiver.