Title
Receive a report from the Department of Social Services on the programs and staffing of Family and Children's Services.
Presenter: Eva Jeronimo, Deputy Director of Family Children's Services
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee of the Board of Supervisors receive a report from the Department of Social Services on the current outcome data, and progress on the Corrective Action Plan in Family and Children's Services.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Monterey County Family and Children's Services (FCS) offers child protective services, foster care services, and adoption services to children and young adults in Monterey County. The mission of FCS is to prevent the occurrence of child abuse and neglect. Service goals strive to keep children and youth safe and within protection of a permanent family.
Since January 2024, FCS has received 2,552 reports of child abuse and neglect, and 1,062 of those reports were referred to the Emergency Response Unit for an in-person investigation. On June 30, 2024, FCS had 1042 open referrals. In June 2024, there were 63 voluntary family maintenance cases open, and there were nine children who were placed into foster care. In regard to ongoing services in June 2024, 62.5% of foster children were placed with all of their siblings, two children reunified with their parent(s), five children were adopted, and no young adults emancipated from foster care.
Since entering into a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), FCS has completed 21 out of 27 corrective actions. All corrective actions are due by November 30, 2024.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Monterey County Department of Social Services partners with Behavioral Health, the Probation Department, and various local non-profit organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of children, youth, and families in Monterey County.
FINANCING:
There is no effect to the County Ge...
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