Neighbor To Family FIRST is a prevention and diversion program currently operational in Volusia and Flagler counties in Florida. It was designed to prevent the placement of abused and neglected children into foster care by providing intensive, family-centered, strength-based and solution-focused services in the homes of families in crisis.
The program provides a supportive, empowering, and respectful relationship with families to facilitate change and resolve the multiple causes of the family's distress. The ultimate goal of FIRST is to preserve family unity and promote the safety and well being of children and their families.
Initial contact with the family occurs with the Child Protective Investigator’s assessment and determination of the family’s eligibility for services. Services are voluntary; however, if not accepted by the family, removal of the children from the home would result. On acceptance, referral is made to the program.
An in-depth family assessment is completed by a Family Care Manager within 48 hours of initial contact. In conjunction with the family assessment, an initial family preservation plan is developed.
A support team that includes a Family Care Manager and Family Engagement Specialist is assigned to each family. The team provides intensive social work, clinical and other supportive services. The teams carry case loads of two to five families; services are generally provided for a four to twelve week period.
