What is the purpose of the Family Preservation Services?

The purpose of Family Preservation Services is centered on supporting families in crisis and preventing the removal of children from their homes. These services aim to strengthen family units by providing resources, guidance, and intervention strategies that address the issues leading to distress or dysfunction. By focusing on keeping families together, these services promote stability within the home environment, which is critical for the well-being of children.

Family Preservation Services typically offer various forms of assistance, including counseling, parenting education, and crisis intervention. The goal is to empower families to manage their challenges effectively, ensuring that children can remain in a safe and nurturing environment. This approach aligns with the broader objectives of child welfare, which prioritize family integrity and the reduction of unnecessary separations.

In contrast, removing children from unsafe environments is a more reactive measure and often occurs when preventive measures fail. Providing temporary housing for displaced families or facilitating adoptions for children in foster care does not align with the primary aim of Family Preservation Services, which is to maintain family connections rather than displacing them.