Upon entry to foster care, WA State grants children a Voucher ($100) that is intended to meet needs (clothing and personal) for the duration of the child’s stay in foster care. This amount does not always meet children’s needs, and especially not the needs of children who may be forced to wait 18 months (or longer) before they can return to safe, stable homes, or before they are adopted.

Kids First aims to fill the gaps for kids by engaging the entire community in helping children access normal childhood opportunities.

How it Works: When a child has a need, or even a wish, to participate in an educational, vocational, or recreational opportunity, and child welfare funds run short, the child’s social worker or foster parent can submit a request for support.  

The Team collaborates with partners (individuals, parents & extended families, social workers, schools, merchants, public and private organizations, civic groups, faith communities) to pool resources.  Partnerships are built. Children are linked with opportunity! 

Requests for Kids First support might include help with:

• Back to School Supplies
• Sports Equipment & Fees  
• Specialized Glasses or Hearing Aids
• Summer Camp Fees
• Costs for travel to visit siblings.
• Music Lessons and Instrument Rentals