FCCS in 2012

This is the time of year when New Year resolutions are made, new goals are set and promises are made to do better in the coming year. Just like many individuals, companies and organizations across the county, Franklin County Children Services is also engaged in a process to determine the best way to protect children and strengthen families in 2012 and beyond.

This past year the agency experienced an increase in demand for services with reports made to our Child Abuse Hotline reaching a record high of 28,311, up 11% compared to 2010. While this upsurge has also led to an increase in investigations, ongoing protective and placement caseloads of children have remained relatively stable. The agency has actually reduced the number of children in out-of- home care by 36% over the last five years. This is largely due to a commitment to provide quality services that reinforce families and keep children safe in their own communities. Plans have been initiated to expand some of those programs that have contributed to these positive results, such as Alternative (Differential) Response, Family-to-Family and Kinship Care. Read the complete story here.