Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Claire Cunningham, Director, Human Services Agency
Subject: Third Amendment to the Agreement with Family Connections for Child Abuse Prevention Services
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Adopt a resolution authorizing the execution of a third amendment with Family Connections to provide child abuse prevention services, increasing funding by $747,100 for a new total obligation amount of $1,801,955, for the term of October 1, 2023 through June 30, 2028.
body
BACKGROUND:
In March 2023, the Human Services Agency (HSA) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify providers of child abuse prevention services under a Family Resource Center model at school-based sites and in-home to at-risk families with children aged 0-18. Family Connections was selected based on their capacity, experience, and method of providing these services.
On October 17, 2023, by Resolution No. 080004, the County entered into an agreement
with Family Connections for the term of October 1, 2023 to June 30, 2026, for a total obligation of $989,855, to provide child abuse prevention services. Under this agreement, parents receive education in positive parenting and support for behavioral and mental health needs, while children build foundational social-emotional and adaptive skills. Services are provided at Family Connections’ early childhood education centers in Daly City, Redwood City (North Fair Oaks), and East Palo Alto. The program aims to prevent involvement in child welfare, juvenile justice, and psychiatric emergency systems.
HSA received supplemental dollars in the amount of $65,000 under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) for the Community-Based Child Abuse Prevention (CBCAP) program to strengthen family-focused, community-based initiatives aimed at preventing child abuse and neglect. On December 2, 2025, by Reso. No 081538, the County authorized an amendment to increase funding by $65,000 for a new total obligation amount of $1,054,855 with no change to the term. The funding was specifically used during the FY 2024-25 term and was intended to help strengthen and support families to prevent child abuse and neglect.
On May 7, 2026, HSA executed a director-level amendment to extend the term by 2 years for a new term of October 1, 2023 through June 30, 2028, with no change to the obligation amount, to ensure child abuse prevention services could continue without a gap until a Board-level amendment to add funding could be executed.
DISCUSSION:
HSA is requesting the County authorize an amendment with Family Connections to increase funding by $747,100, for a new total obligation amount of $1,801,955, for the term of October 1, 2023 through June 30, 2028. This increase will cover the cost of services for the additional two years authorized under a prior amendment. The funding will sustain existing services, including parent education and short-term clinical care, delivered through Family Resource Hubs as well as in-home and community-based settings. Family Connections will continue to provide parenting support, address behavioral and mental health needs, and help children develop the skills necessary for success in kindergarten and beyond.
Family Connections is well positioned to deliver these services through 2028, given their demonstrated performance and established infrastructure within the Family Resource Hubs. Continuing this partnership represents the most effective approach to advancing the County’s prevention goals.
Approval of this amendment will prevent a critical service gap for at-risk families in Daly City, Redwood City, and East Palo Alto. Maintaining current services will ensure that families on waitlists and those already enrolled continue receiving support without interruption. Absent this funding, reduced local capacity could increase the likelihood of deeper system involvement, including entry into the child welfare system.
The amended Agreement and Resolution have been reviewed and approved by the County Attorney as to form.
The resolution contains the County’s standard provisions allowing an amendment of the County’s fiscal obligations by a maximum of $25,000 (in aggregate).
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2025-26 Anticipated |
FY 2026-27 Target |
FY 2027-28 Target |
|
Percentage of parents will demonstrate improvement in overall parenting skills. (Based on a joint provider-family assessment). |
95% |
95% |
95% |
|
Percentage of families and children with treatment plans will demonstrate improvement in two areas of concern as shown by the attainment of treatment plan goal(s). (Based on the provider’s reassessment based on psychosocial and service plan). |
95% |
95% |
95% |
COMMUNITY IMPACT:
This agreement will continue to benefit families with young children in San Mateo County by providing evidence-based parenting education and clinical mental health services through trusted Family Resource Hubs. Services are delivered in-home and in community settings, reducing transportation and childcare barriers while supporting children’s readiness for kindergarten. No negative impacts are anticipated. Staff will address language and accessibility needs through culturally responsive intake and language-matched services. Strong utilization trends demonstrate ongoing engagement and a sustained need for accessible, locally delivered supports. Alignment with Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) standards will further promote equitable outcomes and support future expansion.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of the amended agreement is October 1, 2023 through June 30, 2028. This amendment adds $747,100 in funding for a new total amount of $1,801,955. Budgetary appropriation for this amended agreement is included in FY 2026-27 Recommended Budget. Similar arrangements will be made for future budget years. There is no Net County Cost associated.