By Natasha Cote
Lassen County Case Coordinating Supervisor
The Family First Prevention Services Act represents a significant shift in how child welfare systems approach family preservation and well-being. The primary goal of FFPSA is to reduce the number of children entering foster care by providing families with access to services that address the root causes of instability, such as mental health challenges, substance use, and parenting difficulties.
By investing in prevention-focused services, FFPSA aims to strengthen families and keep children safely in their homes whenever possible.
The Lassen County Implementation Team has been working diligently to tailor this program to the specific needs of our community. This team consists of a collaboration between various county departments and local partners, all focused on ensuring that families receive the evidence-based services they need, at the right time, to prevent unnecessary foster care placements.
A Collaborative and Tailored Approach
One of the primary initiatives led by the program has been the development of the FFPSA Implementation Guide. This comprehensive guide provides clear, actionable strategies for all involved partners, ensuring a consistent and effective program experience for every family served.
By focusing on practical tools and guidelines, our implementation team ensures that no detail is overlooked in delivering services to families across Lassen County. Our team has embraced a highly collaborative approach. We are working closely with Lassen County Behavioral Health, Public Health, Wraparound services, and Child Welfare departments, as well as key community organizations such as the Office of Education and Susanville Indian Rancheria.
Together, we are piloting cases to proactively address potential barriers families might face when accessing services, with the goal of refining and improving the program for long-term sustainability.
Meeting the Unique Needs of Lassen County
Lassen County faces unique challenges, especially as a rural community with diverse populations, including Native American, African American, Latino, and Pacific Islander families. By incorporating a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive framework into our program, we aim to ensure that every family—regardless of background—feels supported and empowered to make positive changes.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to refine and expand the FFPSA program, the implementation team remains committed to building a stronger foundation for the families we serve. Our efforts are not only aimed at responding to crises but at preventing them. We strive to ensure that families have the support they need to thrive in their communities. With the dedicated work of our team and the collaborative efforts of our partners, we are excited to see how this program will evolve and strengthen Lassen County’s future.