Parkland CLASS' Children's Services provide support to families and children with disabilities through a variety of programs and services. Supports are delivered in the community and homes of families and proprietors.
These children's programs conform to the Alberta Association for Services to Children and Families standards. Services are delivered under the direction of families, guardians, and the Central Alberta Child and Family Authority. The Agency also delivers Children's Services under the authority of various Indigenous band councils and Territorial Government agencies from the NWT and Nunavut.
Parkland CLASS' Children's Services include the Family Support Program and the Children's Supported Home Placement Program.
Family Support Program
The Family Support Program connects families with staff support and consultation for their child and family, offering a network of resources to families and children with special needs.
The Family Support Coordinator at Parkland CLASS accepts referrals from community agencies that have identified families in need of service. The family may also initiate the referral process on their own behalf. Families must have a current Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) contract to be considered for service.
The Family Support Program provides families with behaviour and developmental support.
Children's Supported Home Placement Program
The Children's Supported Home Placement Program allows children with disabilities to live in the home of an individual caregiver or family. These children require permanent out-of-home placement for a variety of reasons including school attendance, family breakdown, chronic illness or high behavioural needs.
The model provides housing and accommodation combined with family support and nurturing provided by the caregiver. Children have the opportunity to grow and experience success in a safe and healthy environment that is conducive to skill development, empowerment and participation within the home, family and community.
Children's Residential Services Program
The Children's Residential Services Program provides a home-like atmosphere for children who require permanent out-of-home placement for a variety of reasons including school attendance, family breakdown or chronic illness and high needs. The program provides housing and accommodation combined with personal support staff. Children have the opportunity to grow and experience success in a safe and healthy environment conducive to learning.
Children's Respite Program
The Children's Respite Program offers temporary care and supports to children with disabilities through short-term stays at Agency-operated children's residences. The relief program offers families an opportunity to temporarily divest themselves of the demands of a child with special needs and assists in maintaining strong family units.
