Despite this long history, however, integrated service delivery is still relatively uncommon. While there are a number of testimonials from isolated projects dedicated to integrating social services for certain well-defined small populations, little actual research documents the issues involved in integrating services. Nonetheless, several basic strategies for achieving integration have been considered for some time. In Kentucky, for instance, the education reform legislation mandates a school-linked integrated service model. In West Virginia, on the other hand, education reform legislation mandates community-based service integration.
Sound arguments support both models.
School-linked models locate a service center in or near a school, which serves as the link between the service delivery system and families. Kentucky's Family Resource or Youth Services Centers are to be located in or near schools where at least 20 percent of students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. All children and families, regardless of family incomes, are eligible to receive services at these Family Resource Networks. Proponents of school-linked models argue that, of all public institutions, schools are the most likely to be in touch with children in need of services. Proponents of community-based service integration models argue that schools may NOT be the most suitable institution for arranging or providing the full range of needed services.