At times it becomes necessary for social services to intervene in families where circumstances require the out-of-home placement of children. Child placement is the last resort and is looked at only when children’s safety is at significant risk or in the case where a juvenile has exhibited criminal behavior and requires placement.
Placement options when necessary are based upon the least restrictive environment and options considered are as follows:
- Relative placement
- County-licensed child foster care homes
- Tribal-licensed child foster care homes
- Therapeutic child foster care homes
- Group Settings
- Group Homes
- Shelter Care
- Correctional treatment facilities
- Therapeutic treatment facilities
Respite care is offered on a limited basis to children with serious emotional disturbances and in situations where short-term respite care may reduce the risk of maltreatment or the need for longer-term foster care placement.