Family First Clearinghouse

By John Kelly The Biden administration has released an updated version of the process for vetting foster care prevention services, and is seeking public comment through November 24.  The Handbook of Standards and Procedures, Version 2.0 is presently in draft status and would update the process and procedures for the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse, which was created after the passage of the Family First Prevention Services Act in 2018.

The clearinghouse that greenlights foster care prevention services approved five new programs that states can finance by drawing down federal funds aimed at lessening the use of foster care.

By John Kelly The federal clearinghouse that approves foster care prevention services has okayed five new programs, while rejecting seven models with an evidence base that it assessed as “does not currently meet criteria” for inclusion.

The clearinghouse created to determine new federal funding eligibility under a new law has considered three kinship navigators, programs that serve as one-stop shops for relative caregivers looking for respite care, access to benefits or more general support. 

The IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse, which will be in charge of determining what can be funded under the Family First Prevention Services Act, has announced the first slate of options for states.