Immediate Support for Current and Former Foster Youth & Caregivers — 24/7, 365 Days a Year
The Family Urgent Response System (FURS), formerly Cal-FURS, is a statewide, free 24-hour helpline that provides immediate support for current and former foster youth up to age 21 and their caregivers throughout California.
Operated in partnership with the State of California, the helpline connects youth and families with caring, trained professionals who provide emotional support, conflict resolution, connections to local resources and services, and in-person support within each county when needed.
Whether the concern is big or small, help is always available.
How to Contact FURS
Support is available statewide through:
- Phone call
- Text message
- Online chat
Call or Text:
1-833-939-FURS (3877)
Online Chat:
All services are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How the Family Urgent Response System Helps
FURS provides immediate support designed to help stabilize situations before they escalate. Youth and caregivers can receive help with:
- Emotional support and crisis intervention
- Family conflict and communication challenges
- Placement stabilization support
- Behavioral and mental health concerns
- Connection to local resources and services
- Support navigating difficult situations at home, school, or in the community
In addition to helpline support, they may connect youth and caregivers with local professionals who can provide in-person support in homes, schools, and community settings.
Who Can Contact FURS?
Youth (Up to Age 21)
- Current foster youth
- Former foster youth
- Youth in extended foster care
- Foster youth under juvenile probation supervision
- Foster youth who have been adopted
Caregivers & Families
- Resource families and caregivers
- Relative caregivers
- Adoptive parents
- Biological parents of current or former foster youth
Why FURS Matters
FURS was created to strengthen placement stability, preserve caregiver relationships, and provide families with a supportive alternative during times of stress or crisis.
The program helps:
- Prevent placement disruptions
- Reduce unnecessary law enforcement involvement
- Reduce hospitalizations and out-of-home placements
- Promote healing and family stability
- Support foster caregivers and youth with compassionate, immediate care
To learn more, visit FamilyResponseCa.org