Celebrating a Year of Change in Child Welfare

Children enjoying a day at the park, symbolizing the positive impact of local child welfare initiatives.

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News Summary

The Texas Family Care Network celebrates a significant milestone in child welfare after successfully managing case management for 15 counties over the past year. Transitioning to Community Based Care has improved local support for children and families, resulting in over 400 children being placed in loving homes. The initiative, which released authority from Child Protective Services, aims to combat child abuse and promote well-being. With a commitment from community members, TFCN continues to inspire a collaborative effort for a brighter future for children in need.

Celebrating a Year of Change in Child Welfare

In the heart of Deep East Texas, the Texas Family Care Network (TFCN) is marking a significant milestone—the successful management of case management for 15 counties over the past year. Thanks to Community Based Care, a program launched under Senate Bill 11 back in 2017, child welfare has seen a refreshing twist as it transitions from traditional state oversight to a more localized approach.

Shifting Gears in Child Welfare

By moving the responsibility of foster child placements from Child Protective Services (CPS) to local contractors like TFCN, the initiative aims to strengthen the local network of services available for children and families. TFCN’s Vice President of Community Based Care, Rocky Hensarling, affectionately refers to this work as both complex and delicate, but with tremendous rewards for the community.

Within just a year, TFCN has accomplished what might seem like a monumental feat—removing over 400 children from the daunting foster care system by ensuring they are placed in supportive, loving homes. It’s all part of a strategy designed to create a stronger web of local resources tailored for families in need.

Quick Solutions, Local Roots

One of the astounding aspects of TFCN is its shortened chain of command, which enhances the organization’s ability to swiftly address challenges and secure child placements. Since many staff members hail from the local community, a powerful sense of commitment and understanding drives their mission. Angel Gillispie, the Community Engagement Coordinator, transitioned from the Department of Family and Protective Services and is thrilled to see how TFCN can adapt quickly to obstacles in the field.

At the moment, TFCN is managing a hefty 1,000 cases, with big plans to develop further programs aimed at supporting families. The focus here is clear—community members working together to make sure that the children in their care have the best possible upbringing.

Spreading Awareness About Child Abuse

In conjunction with this success, TFCN and several other organizations took part in an event marking National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Hosted at the Angelina County Courthouse, the gathering drew attention to the importance of combating child abuse head-on. This provided a platform not just for TFCN but also for organizations like CASA of the Pines to collaborate and promote child well-being and abuse prevention.

During this meaningful event, Wayne Haglund was recognized for his 45 years of service on the Angelina County Child Welfare Board, a testament to his deep dedication to the community. Community figures voiced the unrelenting seriousness of child abuse, urging local citizens to play their part in advocating for children’s rights and safety.

How You Can Help

As the community rallies to address child abuse and neglect, residents are reminded that they can contribute significantly by staying vigilant. Susceptible situations can be addressed effectively when the community works together. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicions of abuse or neglect directly by calling the Texas Abuse Hotline.

With the future looking bright, Texas aims to roll out the Community Based Care program across the entire state by 2029, allowing even more families and children to benefit from these invaluable services that promote well-being and secure stable environments for those in need.

As TFCN celebrates its first year and looks to the future, the community is inspired to keep the momentum going, ensuring that every child has a loving home and the support they deserve.