Title
Receive a report on the programs and staffing of Family and Children's Services.
Presenter: Eva Maria Jeronimo, Deputy Director of Social Services
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Health, Housing, and Human Services Committee receive a report on the programs and staffing of 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.
In January 2024, FCS received 376 reports of child abuse and neglect, and 157 of those reports were referred to the Emergency Response Unit for an in-person investigation. On January 31, 2024, FCS had 1159 open referrals. In January 2024, there were 37 voluntary family maintenance cases open, and there were eight children who were placed into foster care. In regards to ongoing services in January 2024, 58.3% of foster children were placed with all of their siblings, two children reunified with their parent(s), one child was adopted, and one young adult emancipated from foster care.
Since entering into a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) with the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), FCS has completed 19 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 General Fund resulting from the receipt of this presentation.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
This action correlates to the following Strategic I...
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