Family First Prevention Services Act of 2018

The Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA), enacted in 2018, aimed to reform the foster care system in the United States by emphasizing family-based care and prevention services. This shift has had a significant impact on the number of residential treatment facilities (RTFs) available for children and adolescents.

Here are some key reasons for the decline in RTF numbers. 

1. Focus on Preventive Services: The FFPSA encourages states to invest in preventive services that support families and help keep children at home rather than placing them in institutional settings. This shift means fewer children are entering RTFs as families receive more support to address issues before they escalate to the point of needing out-of-home care. 

2. Increased Emphasis on Family-Based Care: The act prioritizes family-like settings for children in need of care, such as foster homes or kinship care, rather than traditional residential facilities. This approach aims to provide children with a more nurturing environment, which has led to a reduction in the demand for RTFs. 

3. Funding Changes: The FFPSA alters the way federal funds are allocated, providing financial incentives for states to develop community-based services and support systems instead of relying on institutional care. This funding model encourages states to reduce their reliance on RTFs and invest in alternatives.

4. Regulatory Standards and Compliance: The act has also introduced stricter standards and oversight for RTFs, which may lead to some facilities closing if they cannot meet these new requirements. This has contributed to the overall decline in the number of available residential treatment options. 

5. Cultural Shift in Child Welfare: There has been a broader cultural shift within child welfare systems towards valuing family reunification and community-based care. This cultural change aligns with the goals of the FFPSA, further reducing the reliance on RTFs. 

Overall, while the intent of the Family First Act is to improve outcomes for children and families by keeping them together, it has also led to a notable decrease in the number of residential treatment facilities as the focus shifts toward more supportive, family-centered approaches.

Children and Residential Experiences (CARE)

The organization has contracted with Cornell University to implement the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) program, a Promising Research evidence-based model by the California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse for Child Welfare (CEBC). It motivates children and staff to adhere to routines, structures, and processes while minimizing the potential for interpersonal conflict, which is in compliance with the Family First Prevention Services Act of 2018. 

Visit https://rccp.cornell.edu/CARE_LevelOne.html to learn more information.