Recognizing that delivering high-quality service directly to caregivers increases the likelihood that out-of-home placements will be successful, this program focuses on providing support, counseling and education to foster, kinship or birth families in their own homes. The program is based on the understanding that caregivers are more likely to maintain children in their homes when they are listened to, supported, prepared for the challenges foster children present, and when they understand the child welfare system.
Caregivers with children who have had multiple placements, have a history of behavioral challenges or trauma, have complex mental or physical health needs, or have complicated family or legal situations can benefit from these services. Special attention is provided to caregivers who seek additional support and education to stabilize a placement that is at risk of disruption, or to negotiate the complex provider and child welfare systems. Support services are offered by social workers with out-of-home care expertise and are individualized to meet a family’s needs.
Services include:
- Assessment of caregiver family needs
- Family support and skill development
- Prevention/stabilization of crisis situations
- Education about trauma and its effects on children’s development
- Guidance and advocacy
- Assistance in understanding the child welfare system
- Assistance with efforts to achieve permanence for the child(ren) in their care
- Problem solving/conflict resolution
For more information or to make a referral, contact:
caregiversupport@st-al.org
414-463-1880, ext. 344
If you are interested in initiating these services in your county, please contact:
Deborah Rosen
Division director of Family-Based Services
414-463-1880, ext. 157
drosen@st-al.org
