Foster Care and Adoption Program

The Chickasaw Nation Foster Care and Adoption Program, provided by Chickasaw Nation Child Welfare Services, was developed to provide temporary or permanent care for Native American children placed into tribal or state custody. Since its inception, the foster care and adoption program has aggressively worked toward a goal of providing safe and nurturing care for custody children.

The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) is a federal law that seeks to keep American Indian children with American Indian families. Congress passed ICWA in 1978 in response to the alarmingly high number of Indian children being removed from their homes by both public and private agencies. The Chickasaw Nation continuously seeks applicants who can meet the requirements for certification through the tribe in order to provide children with culturally appropriate homes.

You Provide

• Completed forms
• Valid driver’s license
• CDIB card
• Insurance verifications
• Pet vaccination records
• Other required documentation

Eligibility

To become a foster care or adoptive parent with the Chickasaw Nation, prospective applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Be able to support oneself
• Be a member of a federally recognized tribe
• Reside in Oklahoma
• Can be single or married

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why should I become a foster parent for the Chickasaw Nation?
   The Chickasaw Nation is economically strong, culturally vibrant and full of energetic people dedicated to the preservation of family, community and heritage. Being a foster parent is challenging, but rewarding. You can enhance Chickasaw children’s overall quality of life and support them in their times of need.
2. Can I adopt a Chickasaw foster child?
   The goal of Chickasaw Nation Child Welfare Services is to reunite families. Foster parents may be able to adopt their foster children if they cannot be returned home or placed with a relative.
3. Can I foster and adopt if I am single?
   Yes. Single foster parents can provide a safe and stable home to Chickasaw children in need.
4. Do I have to be Chickasaw to be a foster or adoptive parent?
   No. Foster parents can be a member of any federally recognized tribe. At least one prospective parent must have a CDIB card.
5. Do I have to live in Oklahoma?
   Yes. We are only able to license homes in Oklahoma.
6. How long does it take to become a licensed foster home?
   Timing depends largely upon how quickly you return the necessary paperwork, but we set a goal of licensing foster homes within 90 days.

Other Information

Required forms are available at the above address or can be emailed or mailed upon request. The program is always looking for appropriate families for children.

If you are interested in becoming a foster care provider or adoptive parent with the Chickasaw Nation, please contact Chickasaw Nation Child Welfare Services at (580) 272-5550.