Special grant initiatives started in 1995 to improve the service delivery system for children at risk. Families known to the agency for abuse or neglect may receive intensive social work services aimed at preserving the family unit. Work is short term and goal-oriented. A screening committee selects families currently receiving Child Protective Services or whose children are in foster care placement. In some situations, however, the plan for reunification may not be successful and may change to adoption.
Foster families receive reimbursement monthly to cover room and board.
In addition, children are covered by Medicaid and receive a semi-annual clothing allowance. This service isn't something that we do per se. These are social work services legally mandated by North Carolina General Statutes. Social Workers receive and assess reports of alleged abuse, neglect and dependency of children from birth to eighteen. If allegations are substantiated, case management or placement services are provided to insure that the children are protected and not at risk of further harm.