How do you get a child into group home in NC?

How to Get a Child into a Group Home in North Carolina

Group homes are a type of residential care for children who cannot safely remain in their family home. They provide a structured and supervised environment where children can receive the support and care they need to thrive.

If you are interested in getting a child into a group home in North Carolina, there are a few things you need to know.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for a group home placement, a child must:

Be under the age of 21

Have a serious emotional or behavioral disorder that cannot be safely or effectively treated in a less restrictive setting

Meet income eligibility requirements

How to Apply:

If you believe that a child you know may be eligible for a group home placement, you can apply through your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office. The DSS office will conduct an assessment to determine if the child meets the eligibility criteria and will then refer them to a group home that is appropriate for their needs.

Waiting List

Typically, there are more children needing group home placements than there are group homes available. This means that there may be a waiting list for group home placement. If the child you know is placed on a waiting list, the DSS office will work to find a placement for them as soon as possible.

Cost:

The cost of group home placement varies depending on the type of group home and the level of care that the child needs. Some group homes are paid for by the government, while others are private and must be paid for by the parents or guardians of the child.

Visitation

Children placed in group homes are entitled to visitation with their parents, siblings, and other important people in their lives. The frequency and duration of visitation are determined by the group home staff and the child's treatment team.

Discharge

Children are discharged from group homes when they are no longer in need of the level of care that the group home provides. This may happen when they have reached a certain age, when they have received the treatment that they need, or when they are able to return to their family home or another appropriate setting.

Group homes can provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who cannot remain in their family homes. If you are interested in getting a child into a group home, please contact your local DSS office for more information.