18.7 Requirements for Licensed Child Placing Agencies
The laws of Missouri, section 210.221, RSMo, (1997) give the Children’s Division responsibility for developing and issuing rules establishing standards of service for the private agencies involved in placement of children in foster care and adoption. Section 210.221, RSMo, (1997) makes it unlawful for any person to establish or operate a child placing agency without having in full force and effect a written license granted by the Division. The primary purpose of the regulations is to protect the health, safety and welfare of children being placed outside their home and to assure accountability to at least a minimum standard of quality child placement services.
Foster care is utilized when circumstances in a child’s life make temporary placement outside of their family necessary for the child’s care and safety. Agencies providing such care to children have the responsibility to insure that the child receives the necessary care, protection, and services leading to a permanent plan.
Adoption is a lifelong experience that has a unique impact on all the parties involved. Society and child welfare agencies have the responsibility to assist families formed by adoption, to inform and counsel adopted adults, to assist parents in resolving grief and loss, and to provide supportive services. The public should be informed that these services exist and are available to all that need them.
Not all of the child placing agencies provide both foster care and adoption services. Several agencies provide only one of these services. Refer to Children’s Services Website for Service Providers to access a current listing of all the Licensed Child Placing Agencies operating in the state. Further information concerning these agencies and the Rules for Licensing Child Placing Agencies may be obtained by contacting the Residential Program Unit at (573) 751-4954.