April 9, 2025

Celebrating a Year of Community-Based Care in Deep East Texas

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI)

Community Resource Consultants Inc. (CRCI) is a Michigan-based organization specializing in trauma rehabilitation medical case management. With over 34 years of experience, CRCI is dedicated to empowering survivors of catastrophic auto accidents to regain control of their lives and achieve both physical and emotional well-being. Their team of Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSWs) and Registered Nurses (RNs) are experts in navigating the complexities of today’s healthcare system, ensuring that survivors receive the necessary services for their recovery and rehabilitation. CRCI’s core values include advocacy, people, knowledge, and dependability, reflecting their commitment to being leading advocates and facilitators of long-term collaborative care.

News Summary

The Texas Family Care Network (TFCN) has successfully marked its one-year anniversary managing child welfare services across 15 counties in Deep East Texas. This initiative, sparked by Senate Bill 11, emphasizes local care by transferring foster child placements to local contractors like TFCN. With over 400 children placed in loving homes and plans for statewide expansion by 2029, TFCN is dedicated to creating supportive environments for families while actively promoting child wellbeing as part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Celebrating a Milestone: A Year of Community-Based Care Success in Deep East Texas

In a heartwarming celebration, the Texas Family Care Network (TFCN) recently marked its one-year anniversary managing case management across 15 counties in the picturesque Deep East Texas Region. This initiative reflects a significant shift in how child welfare services are provided, making local care a top priority.

A New Way of Caring for Children

Community-Based Care, sparked into action by Senate Bill 11 back in 2017, transferred the responsibility of foster child placements from the vast Child Protective Services (CPS) to local contractors, such as TFCN. This local approach not only enhances community involvement but also tailors services to better meet the unique needs of families and children in the area. TFCN is on a mission to build a sustainable local service network, utilizing local resources to improve the lives of children and families.

Achievements Worth Celebrating

Since its inception, TFCN has made impressive strides in the community, successfully removing over 400 children from the foster care system and placing them in loving homes. Community engagement coordinator Angel Gillispie highlighted that the shorter chain of command within TFCN allows for quicker decision-making when it comes to solving problems and placing children, which is crucial for their wellbeing. Staff members come from the local community, showcasing a deep commitment to the children they serve and understanding the unique circumstances families face.

As TFCN currently manages around 1,000 cases, the organization is dedicated to creating additional programs aimed at supporting families, nurturing resilience, and promoting healing. This commitment to locally driven care allows TFCN to adapt swiftly to any challenges that emerge, ensuring that children and families have the support they need when they need it most.

A Broader Movement Across Texas

Community-Based Care is becoming increasingly popular, with approximately half of Texas currently using this program. Plans are underway to expand this model statewide by 2029, making it an exciting time for advocates of child welfare throughout the region.

Community Engagement for Child Wellbeing

To commemorate National Child Abuse Prevention Month, TFCN held an inspiring event at the Angelina County Courthouse, bringing together various organizations, including CASA of the Pines, to promote child wellbeing and discuss the vital importance of preventing child abuse. The event honored Wayne Haglund for his incredible 45 years of service with the Angelina County Child Welfare Board. Melissa Kovar, a featured speaker at the event, stressed the importance of confronting child abuse directly, underscoring the need for community involvement.

In a speech that resonated with many, Angelina County Judge Keith Wright addressed the audience, shedding light on the serious issue of child abuse and neglect, highlighting it as a national tragedy that requires urgent attention from everyone in the community.

Taking Action

Citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspected cases of abuse or neglect by reaching out to the Texas Abuse Hotline. Every report matters and could play a significant role in rescuing a child from an unsafe environment and placing them on the path to a brighter future.

Community-based solutions like those offered by TFCN mark a turning point in the child welfare landscape, fostering collaboration and harnessing local resources to create a supportive environment for families and children. With ongoing efforts to expand and improve care, the future looks promising for thousands of children across Texas. Let’s all work together to nurture the next generation and help them thrive in a safe and loving environment!