A regional foster agency that serves Cowley and surrounding counties is set to receive over $300,000 in state grant money.
According to a news release from the Kansas Department of Children and Families, Eckerd Connects — a non-profit agency with an office in Wichita — has been awarded $332,014.
Last year, the Kansas Legislature appropriated $6 million in State General Funds to support the Therapeutic Family Foster Homes capacity building program. TFFH receive increased training and supportive services to provide a temporary home for youth with significant emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs. The homes are part of the continuum level of care and support as a resource for children and families, the news release said.
“Together, the selected agencies will grow the network of Therapeutic Family Foster Homes while providing meaningful services and supports,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “The approaches by the agencies span a number of thoughtful innovations with an ability to have resources customized to meet a child’s or family’s individualized needs.”
The funding for Eckerd will support 5 to 8 homes.
“The innovative mix of service delivery options will result in specific recruitment strategies and increased wraparound supports to resource families, biological families and youth,” DCF said. “Some grants include collaboration with agencies who operate similar programs or support youth requiring a therapeutic level of care.”
Overall, seven agencies will receive $4,765,355 in grants to “build capacity through innovative approaches that will significantly increase the number of homes available and provide needed training and supportive services.”
The grants are effective through June 30, 2025 with the possibility of three one-year renewals. The remaining $1.2 million of the allocated resources will be available to provide other TFFH supports, training and services.
