2021 DPSS Annual Report_FINAL

Annual Report 2020/2021

Children’s Services

DPSS partnered with First 5 Riverside County during the 2020–2021 fiscal year in the operation of the county’s family resource centers (FRCs). The five resource centers, located in underserved communities across the county, offer culturally effective resources and opportunities for families and children. The partnership was forged in response to Senate Bill 436, which was adopted by the state legislature in 2019. The bill identified and formalized family resource centers as key to the delivery of services to children and families. Together, county partners are focusing on strengthening families and creating a robust continuum of care that addresses the diverse and unique needs of all families in Riverside County. Delivering Services to Children & Families with First 5 Riverside County Partnerships with nonprofits such as Seneca Family of Agencies are bringing local alternatives to dependent children so they can remain near their home communities rather than sent to out-of-state residential programs. The enhanced resource caregiver, also called a professional parent, is part of Riverside County’s commitment to bringing trauma-informed services to children who are likely to face lifelong impacts without them, explains Charity Douglas, assistant director of Children’s Services. In the coming year, Children’s Services will continue bringing an array of trauma-informed services to children and families with the greatest needs, including expanding its model of enhanced caregiving. Connecting Enhanced Caregivers to Dependent Children with Complex Needs

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