Prevention and Restoration
Disrupting Harmful Cycles
Engaging Upstream
Over 80% of child abuse cases are due to neglect- a parent’s inability to provide for a child’s basic needs. Many of these parents are living in poverty, lack adequate education and parenting skills, have experienced an unplanned pregnancy, or are battling an addiction. With the help of a loving community and adequate support, families can be restored prior to DFPS intervention.
Engaging Downstream
Each year, approximately 200 Houston teenagers age-out of the foster care system. Few of these young adults have the necessary support systems to successfully navigate life on their own. They are more likely to go to prison than to college, and there’s a good chance they’ll become homeless or trafficked. With the help of a loving and supportive community, we believe this cycle can be broken.
Intervention
Engaging the Foster Care System Holistically
Community Support
Local communities provide vital support for children and families impacted by the foster care system. These include congregations, support groups, parent night out events, tangible needs closets, and other nonprofits. Find helpful resources near your family on the map provided.
Behavioral & Emotional Support
Children who have experienced trauma often have a difficult time coping, learning, connecting, attaching, and developing the skills necessary to transition into adulthood. However, trauma-focused interventions aimed at building connection and attachment have proven highly effective in helping children heal. We have developed a list of local trauma-informed behavioral health providers who are well-suited to meet your child’s needs.
Educational Support
A child’s ability to learn is often disrupted as a result of the trauma they have experienced. In the state of Texas every school district has a foster care liaison, a designated employee who assists children in foster care and their caregivers. We have provided a list of all foster care liaisons in the Houston-area as well as educational nonprofits who help children in foster care meet their educational goals.
Physical & Medical Needs
Houston is home to several health care institutions providing medical care that is specifically tailored to children in foster care. Each of these clinics also provide additional services that may include dental, social work, behavioral health services, case management, and others. We recommend children in foster care receive at least their initial medical visit at one of these facilities.
Legal and Judicial Support
The legal system pertaining to child welfare cases is complex, and there are many key players. Child placing agencies, attorneys, judges, caseworkers, and CASA advocates are all working to help children find permanency. Navigating the legal process can be confusing and frustrating. We’ve provided a list of connections and resources to help families through the process.
Areas We Serve
Far West/Katy
Spring Branch
North Houston
East Houston
Inner Loop
Southwest
Southeast
Deer Park/LaPorte
Webster/Seabrook
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