The Crisis Nursery policies are directly related to its purpose-- to prevent and treat child abuse and neglect, and to preserve the integrity of the family.

Who can use the services?

All voluntary referrals are accepted, if the service being requested falls within the scope of the Center's function.

• Children must be in a potentially abusive situation or family crisis which represents a threat to the child's physical or emotional well-being.
• Respite care will be offered whenever possible; crisis, however, takes priority.
• The age limitations are 0-11 years.
• The capacity of each home is a maximum of 8 children overnight.
• Center care for children destined for long term foster care is inappropriate.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge to the client for the crisis nursery. Counseling fees are to be arranged with therapist in accordance with funding source guideline.

What about confidentiality?

The client's rights of confidentiality must be safe guarded by all staff, students, and volunteers. NO information will be shared outside the agency without a signed release. The identity of all children in the crisis nursery will be confidential.

How are kids admitted to the crisis nursery?

Parents are requested to call first to make arrangements for bringing their children in. This is not always possible. Parents are encouraged to tour the center before leaving their children so they can see the facility and feel comfortable about their child's stay. All first time requests for crisis nursery will be accepted, if space is available. Initial contact forms are used to assess the appropriateness of the center use. Inappropriate requests are referred.

What about DCFS?