The Commissioner of Children and Families may establish, maintain and operate, throughout the state, at such locations as the commissioner finds suitable, receiving homes for children in his or her guardianship or care. For such purposes the commissioner may purchase, lease, hold, sell or convey real and personal property, subject to the provisions of § 4b-21, and contract for the operation and maintenance of such receiving homes with any nonprofit group or organization. Said contract may include administrative, managerial and custodial services. The expense of obtaining and maintaining the same shall be paid out of the appropriation for the Department of Children and Families. The commissioner may, subject to the provisions of chapter 67, appoint such supervisory and other personnel as the commissioner finds necessary for the management of such homes. The maximum charge to be made for care of children in such homes shall be the same as the charge for care of patients in state humane institutions.