Table of Contents

REASON FOR REVIEW

Members of the Grand Jury place a high priority on all services that the County provides for its children. Due to publicity given to problems in other parts of California, and the jury members heightened awareness of these issues, it was determined that the Bureau of Children's Protective Services (CPS) should be included in this year's Grand Jury review.

BACKGROUND

CPS is a branch of the Health and Human Services Agency. Direct services are provided by three licensed social workers.

CPS addresses the needs of children in our community who require protective services by:

1. Assuring the appropriate placement of those children in need of foster homes.
2. Providing legally required background investigations on those persons seeking to be foster parents.
3. Dealing directly with court associated emergency situations and other emergent situations on a 24-hour basis.
4. Receiving and responding to referrals from law enforcement agencies, medical personnel and teachers.

METHODOLOGY

The review of CPS included a facility tour and staff interview. Systems and procedures reviewed focused on the new method for child visitation within the department's new visitation room, the foster parent program, the computer system in place for retrieval of information statewide and Y2K preparedness.

Persons interviewed:

1. Director, Health and Human Services Agency
2. Program Director, Children's Protective Services

FACTS

1. CPS has provided services for the children of Adam County since 1981.
2. CPS handles approximately 1,355 cases per year with a monthly open caseload of close to 70 cases.
3. Funding for this agency is broken down into 50% Federal funds, 25% State funds and 25% County funds. The CPS budget is included under the umbrella of the Social Services Department. They receive no grant funding.
4. Y2K compliance has been addressed.

CONCLUSIONS

The systems and procedures reviewed appear to be in compliance with State standards.

RECOMMENDATIONS

None. No response is necessary.