10/26/2026
❤️ Foster Champs of Washington: Your Questions Answered
1. What is Foster Champs of Washington?
FCOW is a nonprofit that supports children and families connected to foster care, adoption, and kinship care. We bridge gaps in support and build community.
2. Who can join?
Foster parents, adoptive families, kinship caregivers, and families whose children have experienced foster care are encouraged to connect with us about an intake.
3. What does “kinship care” mean?
It means raising a relative’s child—or a child with whom you have a close family-like connection. This can include grandparents, aunts, uncles, adult siblings, or close family friends.
4. Do I need to be a licensed foster parent?
No! Our community includes caregivers who are not licensed foster parents, including grandparents raising grandchildren and other kinship families.
5. Can we still belong after adoption or guardianship?
Yes! The need for support and connection doesn’t end when an adoption or guardianship becomes final.
6. Do we need an open CPS or DCYF case?
No. We also support families whose adoption, guardianship, or kinship arrangement does not involve an open case.
7. What does FCOW offer?
We create opportunities for family connection, sibling reunions, community events, and caregiver support. Resources and seasonal programs depend on available donations and volunteers.
8. Does FCOW help siblings stay connected?
Yes! Helping siblings spend time together and maintain meaningful relationships is an important part of our mission.
9. How do I join the private group?
Start by completing an intake with us. That conversation helps us get to know your family and explain how to participate.
10. Why is an intake required?
We want to know the families we serve, understand their needs, and explain our community’s expectations. It helps us build a connected, supportive group.
11. What is shared in the private group?
That’s where families find event details, program announcements, opportunities, and updates about how to participate.
12. Are members expected to participate?
Yes! We ask families to stay engaged in the private group and attend at least three events each year. FCOW grows through relationships and showing up for one another.
13. Is FCOW only for Christmas help?
No! Christmas is one part of our work. We build connections and support families throughout the year.
14. What areas do you serve?
Our current community is centered in King and Pierce Counties. We’re also working toward connections and future chapters in other areas.
15. Can I help even if I’m not a caregiver?
Absolutely! Community members and businesses can volunteer, donate, host a toy drive, sponsor an event, or share their skills.
16. Can another organization partner with FCOW?
Yes! We welcome connections with organizations and community leaders offering resources or free family events that help children and caregivers connect.
17. Can FCOW meet every request?
We do our best, but assistance depends on donations, volunteers, program requirements, and available resources.
18. How do I get started?
Reach out to Foster Champs of Washington to ask about intake availability. We’d love to learn about your family! ❤️
