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Preventive Services

Preventive Services support families to avert the need for foster care.

They address early symptoms to avoid bigger problems later on.

Preventive services are for:

  • Families with children under 18 at risk of foster care placement
  • Helping a child in foster care return home
  • Reducing the chance a child might be returned to foster care

Overview

How Do Families Get Preventive Services?

Most preventive services are mandated by a court following a Child Protective Services investigation.

But referrals can come from community groups, schools, other institutions and service providers and even families themselves.

Non-mandated preventive services may be offered when there is some level of risk, but the possibility of foster care placement is not immediate.

A family situation must be assessed to determine eligibility for preventive services.

What Kinds of Services Are Offered?

Preventive services may include:

  • Case management
  • Case planning
  • Casework contacts
  • Daycare services
  • Homemaker services
  • Home management services
  • Clinical services
  • Parenting/parent aide services
  • Transportation services
  • Emergency shelter
  • Preventive housing services
  • Intensive home based family preservation services
  • Crisis respite care
  • Recreational services

Additional Resources

HEARS Family Line
(Help, Empower, Advocate, Reassure and Support)
1-888-55HEARS ( 1-888-554-3277 )
Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

The HEARS family line provides resources and referrals to services. Caring representatives guide families to services including food, clothing, housing, medical and behavioral health care, parenting education and child care. 

Contact:

Preventive Services Inquiries