Supporting At-Risk Youth Through the Children’s Services Act (CSA)
A statute in Virginia called the Children’s Services Act (CSA) was created to give at-risk youngsters and their families coordinated, family-centered, and child welfare services in Virginia. To guarantee that kids and families obtain the help they require to flourish, CSA works in partnership with neighborhood organizations, service providers, and community partners. Children who qualify could require intensive care to enable them to stay in their homes and communities safely. Children who have significant emotional or behavioral issues are planned for and served by parents/caregivers in collaboration with personnel from public child-serving organizations, schools, and mental health care professionals.
Who Does CSA Serve?
In 1993, the Children’s Services Act (CSA) funding and resources in Virginia were passed, creating a single state budget to buy services for vulnerable children and their families. Local interagency teams design and supervise programs for youth using state funding and local community monies. CSA support for foster care and special education in Virginia focuses on children and adolescents with significant emotional or behavioral challenges, those involved in foster care or the juvenile justice system, and youth who require specialized educational services. The goal is to address individual needs while promoting safety, stability, and well-being.
How Does CSA Work?
Eligible youth and their families have their needs assessed by a Family Assessment and Planning Team (FAPT) in each locality. Behavioral health therapy, residential treatment, educational support, and other personalized service plans are created by this team. By utilizing both local and state resources, the CSA process guarantees a comprehensive and economical approach, leading to optimal results. At Epic Health Partners, CSA Virginia follows the Systems of Care (SOC) guidelines and standards. Our belief is to:
- Offer community-based youth and family supportive services in Virginia.
- Role of the family assessment and planning team under CSA in Virginia.
- Make use of the youth’s and family’s strengths.
- Assure interagency cooperation and care coordination.
- Provide family-centered, comprehensive, adaptable, and customized services that reflect the distinctive characteristics of kids and families.
- Make certain that all children and their families receive support services that will arm them with the skills they need to thrive in the community.
- Involve the families in the decision-making process and ensure that the children’s and their families’ needs are satisfied using the least restrictive techniques.
- Families should, whenever possible, stay together, and children’s problems will be resolved within the framework of the family.
Why Choose CSA?
To make sure that every child and family gets the right support at the right time, the local CSA program in Virginia places a strong emphasis on teamwork and customization. CSA strengthens the groundwork for long-term success by empowering families and establishing partnerships. Get in touch with the Office of Children’s Services (OCS) in Virginia in your area for additional details.
- CSA Office in Pittsylvania County: (434) 432-8374
- CSA Office in Danville City: (434) 799-5207
Get the Support You Need
A case manager is usually assigned to the client before CSA services are referred through a CPMT member organization. Contact Epic Health Partners at (434) 835-4601 or book a CSA assessment appointment in Virginia by email at info@epichealthpartners.com if you think your child needs CSA services.
FAQs
What is the Children’s Services Act (CSA) in Virginia?
In Virginia, at-risk children and their families can receive assistance and support through the Children’s Services Act (CSA).
Who qualifies for CSA services?
If a child has significant emotional or behavioral issues, they may qualify for services that are sponsored by CSA.
How do I apply for CSA benefits?
You usually need to go to your government’s online portal to apply for CSA (Child Support Agency) benefits. There, you can fill out an application form with information about you, your child, and the other parent, including their income. You can also call the CSA directly to start the application process.
What services and supports are offered under the CSA?
In Virginia, families and young people who are at risk or face significant obstacles can receive assistance through the Children’s Services Act (CSA). Services include community-based programs, foster care, and mental health assistance.
How does the Family Assessment and Planning Team (FAPT) operate?
FAPT is made up of a community parent, frequently a private provider, and supervisory-level employees from the same organizations as the CPMT.
What role does the Office of Children’s Services (OCS) play?
OCS provides services to families whose children have been deemed dangerous or at high risk of abuse by their caregiver or parent. When it is safe to do so, children should stay in their homes, according to OCS’s requirements and principles, even in cases when a high-risk or unsafe condition is found.
How is CSA funding structured in Virginia?
The CSA receives state and federal funding as a distinct agency (Agency 200). Under the Children’s Services Act, local governments are given access to two different kinds of funding: pool funds and local administrative funds.
Can CSA services help with foster care or special education needs?
Depending on each child’s unique needs and the determined degree of care, different services will be provided. Services are offered in a therapeutic facility.
Where can I find my local CSA office?
- CSA Office in Pittsylvania County: (434) 432-8374
- CSA Office in Danville City: (434) 799-5207
What should I expect during a CSA assessment?
At least once a year, the Virginia Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessment must be carried out to assess development and identify present and future needs.
