Respite care is a support service provided to caregivers that allows for temporary respite, or time away, from day-to-day parenting responsibilities. 

Respite care can be arranged for a day or overnight. Only children who are in private agency or DFCS- approved foster homes are eligible to receive this service.

Respite care costs are reimbursed at the current per diem rate and may not exceed 10 days per fiscal year, taken individually or consecutively during the fiscal year (July through June).

Note: Respite care for foster parents attending approved overnight conferences should follow the provider guidelines established. However, these days will not count toward your respite balance.

All respite care providers must meet the same basic requirements as supplemental supervision providers who are licensed center or group- based providers; registered family child care homes; legally operating child care programs; informal relative or non-relative providers; or in-home or out- of-home providers.

Note: Requirements for in-home or out-of- home providers should be discussed with your case manager.

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