These grants are designed to encourage non-custodial parents' positive involvement in the lives of their children in cases where it is appropriate. The funds for the new grant program are available because of the new welfare reform law signed by President Clinton last year.
States have flexibility in how they design and operate the access and visitation projects.
Activities include, but are not limited to, mediation, counseling, education, development of parenting plans, visitation enforcement, and development of guidelines for visitation and alternative custody arrangements. These grants will encourage the safe and supportive contact of parents with their children. The grants may be used to create or enhance state-run programs, or to fund grants or contracts with courts, local public agencies, or nonprofit private entities. Programs do not have to operate statewide. Designated state agencies include Governors' offices, offices of the Attorneys General, social service agencies, child support offices and courts.