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Texas Family Care Network Celebrates Milestone in Child Welfare

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News Summary

The Texas Family Care Network (TFCN) celebrates its first year of managing case management across 15 counties, successfully placing over 400 children in loving homes. This initiative, part of Senate Bill 11, aims to enhance foster care experiences through local organizations. TFCN emphasizes community commitment, fostering a shorter chain of command for quicker responses in urgent situations. A recent event at the local courthouse highlighted their progress and the importance of child safety, uniting various organizations in the fight against child abuse. TFCN’s successes demonstrate how community-based care can lead to significant improvements in child welfare.

Texas Family Care Network Celebrates Milestone in Community-Based Care

In a heartening turn of events for child welfare in Deep East Texas, the Texas Family Care Network (TFCN) has proudly wrapped up its first year of managing case management across 15 counties in the region. Established as part of a broader initiative through Senate Bill 11 back in 2017, TFCN’s mission is to make the foster care experience better by moving placement responsibilities from the traditional Child Protective Services to local organizations like itself. This shift aims to leverage local resources and expertise to benefit children and their families more effectively.

A Glimpse into Community-Based Care

Within just a year, TFCN has seen significant success, managing around 1,000 cases and successfully removing more than 400 children from the foster care system by placing them in loving homes. This is no small feat, as Rocky Hensarling, the VP of Community-Based Care for TFCN, points out the complexities and delicate nature surrounding child welfare work. Each child’s story is unique, often requiring tailored approaches to ensure their safety and well-being.

One of the standout features of TFCN’s approach is its ability to foster a shorter chain of command. This allows for quicker responses to problems and faster placements, which is critical in urgent situations. Community Engagement Coordinator, Angel Gillispie, who transitioned to TFCN from the Department of Family and Protective Services, highlights the organization’s agile nature. This is a breath of fresh air, especially when challenges arise and timely solutions are needed for vulnerable children.

The Local Touch Matters

What really sets TFCN apart is its local commitment. The staff consists of community members who have a vested interest in the well-being of the children they serve. This local connection not only strengthens the bond between caretakers and children but also fosters a deep sense of understanding of the community’s specific needs. The more the team knows their community, the better they can serve its families.

Currently, approximately half of Texas is utilizing the Community-Based Care system, with ambitious plans to extend this program statewide by 2029. The significant strides made so far are indicative of a brighter future ahead where family and child support networks can evolve to become more robust and efficient.

Marking Progress in Child Welfare

To celebrate their progress and advocate for child welfare, TFCN hosted an event at the local courthouse, coinciding with National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the importance of confronting child abuse head-on. Participants included various organizations, such as CASA of the Pines and TFCN, all united in their mission to promote child safety and well-being.

A particular moment of appreciation during the event was dedicated to Wayne Haglund, who has devoted 45 years of service to the Angelina County Child Welfare Board. His long-term commitment speaks volumes about the dedication required in this field. Attendees were reminded of the **seriousness of child abuse and neglect**, described poignantly as a national tragedy by local authorities. Citizens were encouraged to take an active role in this fight by reporting suspected abuse or neglect to the Texas Abuse Hotline, reinforcing the notion that everyone has a role to play in keeping children safe.

With the groundwork laid and community-focused initiatives blossoming, TFCN’s first year serves as an inspiring example of how local solutions can lead to meaningful change in the lives of children and families. Here’s to a future where every child feels safe, loved, and supported in their journey towards a brighter tomorrow.

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