CWS-CARES Public Library
Resource Family Approval in CWS-CARES
RFA (Resource Family Approval) supports the process of approving foster and adoptive families and is a component that will be integrated into CWS-CARES. Today, RFA features are not currently available in CWS/CMS, and counties are using other systems for this function.
In the future, RFA features will be integrated directly into CWS-CARES, eliminating the need for separate county systems. This will prevent redundancy and streamline the approval process for resource families.
RFA systems currently in use will be retired once CWS-CARES is fully operational, including Binti RFA. Greenfield RFA functionality will be incorporated into CARES V1 and will no longer be a standalone system as it is now.
One of the many RFA features that will be incorporated in CWS-CARES is the RFA Application Portal. Potential resource families can apply online, reducing paperwork and speeding up the process. The system guides applicants through the streamlined process of becoming a foster or adoptive parent, ensuring all necessary information is provided.
To prepare for RFA in CWS-CARES, data conversion from current RFA systems and migration planning activities are underway. The project plans to migrate existing county RFA data into CWS-CARES. RFA functionality in CWS-CARES is planned for testing in February to March 2026 during the third round of Extended User Scenario Testing (EUST 3).
By automating and streamlining the RFA process, CWS-CARES helps to expedite the approval of resource families, allowing children to be placed in stable, loving homes more quickly.
Originally published in the CWS-CARES Explorer.