Foster Care Bill of Rights

The Rights of Youth in Foster Care

As established by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), youth in foster care have specific rights. These rights apply across New York State, including New York City.

Through a survey of over 60 youth in foster care, we found that while approximately 80% were aware they had rights, most did not know what those rights were or where to find that information. Additionally, more than half of the youth reported that a caseworker had not read, reviewed, or explained the Foster Care Bill of Rights to them, despite OCFS policy requiring this to be done at least once per year.

In response, our Youth Advisory Board has been working diligently on a Foster Care Bill of Rights project. Through this initiative, they have been educating CASA-NYC staff, volunteers, CASA youth, and ACS Youth Leaders to ensure that young people are informed, empowered, and able to advocate for themselves.

The Foster Care Bill of Rights

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES BILL OF RIGHTS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN FOSTER CARE

As a child or youth in foster care in the State of New York, I have the right:

To Live in a Safe Residence

To live in a safe, nurturing, healthy, and suitable residence, free from exploitation, where I am treated with respect and where I have enough food and adequate clothing. I have the right to the least restrictive, most home-like setting where I can safely live and receive services.

To Be Treated Fairly with Respect

To be treated fairly and with respect and to receive care and services that are free of discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, or the fact that I am in foster care.

To Visit with Birth Family

To visit with my birth or adoptive parents, unless the court has determined that it is not in my best interest or my parents’ rights have been ended or given up. If I have had children of my own while in care, I have the right to live with my child(ren) and to make decisions for my child(ren), unless the court or agency determines that I cannot.

There's More! Read the Full Bill

CASA-NYC Youth Advisory Board:

Christina Abraham

Leighanna Faith

Savannah Ralph

Noah Bornheimer

Niasia Blagrove

Brandon Romero

Jamaike Barnett

Jolene Payne

Meet the Youth Advisory Board

Want to learn more about the Foster Care Bill of Rights?

Visit the ACS Website