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A s of Jan 2005 the FIRST Line Foster Intervention and Retention Support Team  (See Letter To Members on the Membership page) will be financially supported and managed by DCFS. Call  253.219.6782. Someone can take your calls from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.. Monday through Saturday. You can also leave a message, which will be returned within 48 hours.

We have maintained our FPAWS  Resource Line to further support you in these times of change. You will still hear the experienced, informative, supportive and friendly voice of Ruth Graham. or a Board Member.  24/7

Call 1.800.391.2273  You can also leave a message, which will be returned within 24hours. 

Thank you for caring for the children of Washington State.

hat is FIRST?

FIRST is a statewide team of volunteer foster parents who are trained to provide:
Non-judgmental Support
Community Resource Referrals
Explanation of the Investigative Process
Avenues of Action
Communication with the Division of Licensed Resources

hy does FIRST exist?

Many licensed foster parents will, at some time, undergo an investigation. Being investigated can be a devastating experience for the foster family. The FIRST Program's mission is to provide an educational and supporting response to foster parents undergoing a CPS facilities or licensing investigation.

ho are the volunteers?

Volunteers are specially trained foster parents who want to support other foster parents through an investigation. many of the volunteers have been through investigations themselves and understand the frustrations and anger of having an allegation investigated. Referrals are usually made to the volunteer closest to you. However, if you prefer, you may request a volunteer from a different area.

ow does the FIRST Program work?

When an investigation is initiated, a DLR worker should inform the foster parents about the availability of a FIRST Volunteer and refer them to 1-800-391-CARE (2273)
When you call this number, trained staff will take your name, phone number, and the region you live in. They will also ask for a brief description of your situation. Staff will then find a volunteer in your region to take your call. The volunteer will call you within the 24 hours. Both staff and FIRST volunteers are mandated reporters and will report child abuse and neglect as defined in RCW 26.44.030.

Explanation of Services

SUPPORT First volunteers can provide you with non-judgmental support. Talking with a volunteer gives you the opportunity to get the story out, vent the emotions you are feeling, and plan your course of action.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES FIRST volunteers have community resource directories from each region to help you find the resources that you need.

INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS FIRST volunteers have received training from CPS Facilities and Licensing supervisors. They can explain the investigative process and provide you with your local chain of command.

AVENUES OF ACTION FIRST volunteers have names and numbers of people you can call if you feel that your investigation is not proceeding according to DSHS policy.

COMMUNICATION WITH DLR FIRST volunteers can facilitate communication with DLR staff via telephone after release of information has been signed and they can attend DLR staffings with you when you are requested to be present.