How does Florida DCF define "reunification"?

The definition of "reunification" by Florida DCF focuses on the process of returning a child to their biological or legal family, contingent upon ensuring safety for the child. This approach underscores the priority of preserving family ties whenever possible while ensuring that the child's well-being is paramount. Reunification is typically pursued after the necessary assessments and interventions have been implemented to address any concerns related to the child’s safety and welfare.

In this context, returning a child to their family is seen as a positive step towards stability and healing, provided that the family can provide a safe environment. The emphasis on ensuring safety before the reunification occurs illustrates the importance of safeguarding the child’s welfare during this critical transition.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts: a permanent adoption represents a legal transfer of parental rights, temporary foster care addresses short-term placement away from the family, and granting custody to relatives involves a legal change in guardianship rather than a return to the original family unit. Each of these options reflects a different aspect of child placement and care rather than the specific goal of reunification.