Children's Attention Home launches Day Services Program

Children's Attention Home is excited to announce the addition of its new Day Services Program. This program provides a safe place and support services for youth in foster care during the day.

Due to a shortage of foster homes and suitable placements, a growing number of youth are without long-term placement. During the day, they sit in offices while caseworkers continue searching for a placement that meets their needs.

According to Executive Director Emily Parrish, the goal of this program is to ensure youth receive the care and support they need while wait. Last year, when the S.C. Department of Social Services (SCDSS) reached out to agencies across the state to pilot this program, the Home is one of two who stepped forward to help.

"We are excited to be part of this initiative to serve these children," Parrish stated. "The Day Services Program fills a critical gap in care. With this program, we can ensure these kids are receiving the individual care they so desperately need while they wait for a home."

The Day Services Program operates year-round for five days a week. Located at the Bridge House in Rock Hill, SC, the program provides meals, activities, online learning, and spaces for hanging out, educational support, eating areas, and activities. Recent renovations include laundry facilities, showers, and a quiet room.

"Every day is different, and every child is different," Parrish shared. "One child may need to have time to themselves to sleep, and another may want to play games or just talk. One child may come in with nothing but the clothes they are wearing, and another is missing their medication. It's our job to make sure those needs are all met."

To date, the program has served over 50 children, ensuring they have clothes, meals, and enriching activities to learn and build positive relationships while they wait for a suitable placement. Parrish shares that the program has been a collaborative partnership with SCDSS to ensure these children are receiving the care they need.

To learn more about this program, the community is invited to attend the Day Services Open House on Sunday, Feb 25. Learn more at [link to event page].