What is 1624 & WHY it matters to Washington Foster Parents. If you’re a foster or kinship caregiver in Washington State, you may have heard the term “1624” mentioned in meetings, emails, or on social media. But what exactly is the 1624 Workgroup—and why is it important to you?
🧩 What Is 1624?
The 1624 Workgroup is a state-mandated advisory group that brings foster and kinship caregivers together with leadership from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). It was created under RCW 74.13.031(2), following the passage of House Bill 1624, to ensure caregivers have a voice in shaping the policies that affect the children and youth in their homes.
This is not just another committee—it’s a real opportunity for caregivers to be heard at the highest levels.
🗣️ Why It Matters
Through 1624, foster and kinship caregivers across Washington can:
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Raise concerns about licensing, training, reimbursement, placement support, and more.
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Share ideas and solutions from real-life caregiving experience.
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Hear updates directly from DCYF and influence change through structured conversations.
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Connect regionally to ensure that local issues are acknowledged and brought forward.
Caregivers don’t just sit in the room—they shape the agenda. And the feedback shared in 1624 has already led to improvements in communication, caregiver support lines, and resource accessibility.
🌍 Who Represents You?
Every DCYF region has elected caregiver representatives who attend quarterly 1624 meetings and bring forward issues from their area. These reps are also available to caregivers throughout the year—so you can reach out anytime.
📩 Visit our FPAWS 1624 Page to view current regional reps and their contact info.
💬 Want to Share Your Voice?
FPAWS helps amplify the voices of caregivers at 1624 by:
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Collecting feedback and stories from the field
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Supporting reps in sharing lived experience
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Advocating alongside you for a better system
If you have a concern, suggestion, or success story you’d like to be shared at 1624, email us at support@fpawscares.org or connect with your regional rep.
💡 Final Thought
1624 is proof that your voice matters. FPAWS is proud to be a part of this workgroup and to walk alongside you in shaping a stronger, more responsive system for our children and families.
