Among other things, the funds pay for child abuse prevention and treatment efforts, which may include respite and crisis care. Child welfare demonstration projects waive certain federal requirements and allow states to support preventive services, which may include respite and crisis care service delivery networks. The program provides funds for social services to families with special needs. Its goals are to prevent neglect, abuse or exploitation of children and adults, and prevent or reduce inappropriate institutional care. Respite and crisis care are accepted SSBG services.
States receive the funds with few strings attached.
The annual allotments are non-competitive, there is no required match, and the funds may be used to support public agencies or to contract with private service providers. Client eligibility is not restricted, and service provider qualifications are flexible. This program provides grants to states which they may use to provide respite and other services for children with special health care needs. At least 30 percent of the funds must be used for services to children with disabilities. The conditions that qualify as special health care needs vary widely among states, but typically they are defined as congenital or acquired chronic disabling conditions.