Title:
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Approve and authorize the Chairman to execute the Special Funding agreements with KidsHouse, SafeHouse of Seminole, and the Youth Advocate Program for the provision of diversion, coordinated care, and behavioral health services in the amount of $98,000. Countywide (Allison Thall, Community Services Director)
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Division:
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Community Services - Community Assistance
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Authorized By:
Allison Thall, Community Services Director
Contact/Phone Number:
Carrie Longsworth/407-665-2389
Background:
In June 2023, Embrace Families Solutions, Inc. met with County staff in hopes of partnering with Seminole County to maintain the critical services they have historically provided to the community. During the 2023 legislative session, Embrace Families’ core funding decreased by 6% largely due to a reduction in the level of funds allocated for placing children with relatives instead of licensed foster homes. The cut, coupled with the rising cost of services and increasing client acuity, left Embrace Families to eliminate $13 million from their budget in July 2023.
As a result of the reduction in funds, three agencies providing services in Seminole County were also impacted by the funding cuts. Embrace Families reduced funding to SafeHouse of Seminole, KidsHouse and the Youth Advocate Program. The County Manager has worked with staff to assist these agencies with a one-time award of funding to fill the gap created by the Embrace Families funding cuts. The recommended award amounts are as follows: KidsHouse- $30,000, SafeHouse of Seminole- $33,000, and the Youth Advocate Program- $35,000 for a total amount of $98,000.
SafeHouse of Seminole will be utilizing this funding to provide Diversion services for families who find themselves in the child welfare system as well as the victims of domestic violence. KidsHouse will be providing coordinated services to the children and families who have been the victims of child abuse. The Youth Advocate Program (YAP) will utilize the funding for their YAP WRAP program which provides intensive individualized Behavioral Health services to youth and their families in their homes, schools, and communities.
Requested Action:
Staff requests action to approve and authorize the Chairman to execute the Special Funding agreements with KidsHouse, SafeHouse of Seminole, and the Youth Advocate Program for the provision of diversion, coordinated care, and behavioral health services in the amount of $98,000.