Our program provides the stability that is difficult to achieve in short-term foster care. Children’s lives at Hutton are consistent, with brothers, sisters, friends, and other meaningful adults. We give children a stable environment to help strengthen their growth and development.
The Hutton Settlement campus operation is certified by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services as meeting all of the licensing requirements for a residential childcare facility. Children under the care and custody of the state may be placed at The Settlement at no cost to taxpayers. They will maintain a DCYF case monitor and will work in cooperation with the Hutton staff in these responsibilities.
Hutton Settlement is a neighborhood of care. We have four large homes where children live in a household setting under the supervision of “house parents”. This structure is meant to give children individualized care.
- HOW DOES A CHILD COME TO HUTTON?
Referrals come from parents, grandparents, family members, case managers, therapists, educators, and other child welfare advocates. The referral process can begin with a simple phone call or e-mail to our office. We will guide you through an evaluation of the child’s needs and the needs of the family. It will then be determined if Hutton Settlement will be in the best interest of the child.
- LENGTH OF STAY
Children should plan to stay for at least the completion of a full school year, although stay througout their childhood and through high school graduation. We can provide both short term stays of 9 months to one year, or permanency lasting many years.
- RESPONSIBILITY
If parents/guardians wish to retain responsibility for their child without involvement from government agencies, it is possible to directly place their child/children at the Hutton Settlement. Our goal is to keep siblings together and partner with parents and guardians to create the best possible experience.
- COST
The Hutton Settlement is privately endowed, therefore it is not dependent on government funding for support. No child is turned away because a parent/guardian is unable to pay. The charge depends on if caretaker is able to pay.