"Until the Cluster program started, I only knew one other foster family, now I've met lots! It has been so good for my own children to meet other families and kids that foster; they have been able to see that we weren't the only people who did this. This has been so valuable to our family." -Foster Parent, 2004

Cluster Support Groups

Many foster, adoptive and kinship families feel most comfortable with families who are similar to their own—families who can provide friendship, support, ideas and information about caring for their children. The Utah Foster Care Foundation (UFCF), the Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Utah Foster/Adoptive Family Association (UFAFA) and the adoption community have worked together to provide Cluster Groups throughout the state.

A “Cluster” group is a support group of approximately 15-50 foster, adoptive or kinship families (couples or singles) who organize to support the caregiving experience.  There are currently 39 cluster groups statewide, and each is facilitated by a resource parent.  These groups are based either on geographical areas
or by the specialized care that is provided. 
Such specialized groups include foster-to adopt families, Spanish speaking families, and families who provide the highest level of care.

The overall objectives of the program are to provide resource families with the opportunity to create an avenue for emotional and social support, host in-service trainings, receive care-giving assistance from other Cluster members and volunteers, share responsibilities through peer supports, and access additional resources and information. Foster families can complete ALL 12 in-service training hours through the Cluster groups.

Please click the link below for the Cluster Group nearest you. If you have any questions or wish to join a Cluster Group, please call the facilitator that is listed for your area or call Nikki MacKay at 1-877-505-KIDS or email Nikki@utahfostercare.org.

Salt Lake Valley Region

Northern Region

Western Region

Eastern Region

Southwest Region

Toll-free 1-877-505-KIDS
or 1-801-994-5205
moreinfo@utahfostercare.org

 

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