"Providing a bridge for families looking for a way forward"

The ARS program receives low risk Child Protective Service (CPS) referrals for children age birth-18 yrs directly from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). A public health nurse provides nursing assessments, goal setting, evaluations and interventions in the home setting. The nurse prioritizes, assists to establish goals and provides interventions for identified problems. ARS reduces the risk of abuse or neglect of children, enhances parenting skills, family and personal self-sufficiency and functioning. ARS also reduces stress on families and the likelihood of additional CPS referrals through an established partnership with families to address healthcare, growth and development, safety, nutrition and parenting. Community resources and referrals are also provided as needed.

Families are eligible for services if:

• Abuse or neglect allegations have been reported to CPS
  
• CPS has designated the case to be a low (1) or moderately low (2) risk case
  
• DCFS refers the case to ARS

Length of Service

Maximum of 90 days. An extension beyond this time limit is possible depending on the nature of the problem.