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Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), Social Services Division, recommending the Board:
1) Approve the use of the Respite Care boilerplate agreement on an “as requested” basis in order to permit HHSA’s Child Welfare Services program to enter into respite care agreements with approved resource family and/or licensed foster homes to provide short-term rest periods for family caregivers seeking to reduce parental stress, thereby promoting placement stability for children; and
2) Adopt and authorize the Chair to sign Resolution 059-2017, which authorizes the HHSA Director or designee to sign Respite Care boilerplate agreements.
FUNDING: Federal and State Funding.
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DEPARTMENT RECOMMENDATION
Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) recommending the Board approve the use of the Respite Care boilerplate agreement and adopt the Resolution to authorize the HHSA Director, or designee, to execute pre-approved Respite Care boilerplates on an “as requested” basis. Respite care provides short-term rest periods for family caregivers seeking to reduce parental stress and enhances placement stability for children.
Additionally, HHSA has determined, in accordance with County Ordinance Section 3.13.030, it is more economical and feasible to engage an independent contractor for respite services as the County does not possess the staff or facilities required to provide respite services.
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
HHSA’s Child Welfare Services (CWS) is required to promote family stabilization, family maintenance, and family reunification for children and their families. To that end, CWS offers an array of services designed to promote the well-being of children by ensuring safety, achieving permanency, and strengthening families to successfully care for their children.
Research has shown an increased likelihood of child abuse when parents are under high stress. In El Dorado County, it is estimated that there are 7.2 cases of child abuse per 1,000 children (source:...
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