Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Claire Cunningham, Director, Human Services Agency
Subject: Amendment to the Agreement with StarVista for Child Abuse Prevention Services
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement with StarVista to continue providing child abuse prevention services, increasing the amount by $1,693,252 for a new total obligation amount not to exceed $3,009,416 with no change to the term.
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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 in the community and in-home to at-risk families with children ages 0-18. StarVista was one of two providers awarded based on their capacity, experience, and method of providing these services.
On October 17, 2023, by Resolution No. 080003, the County entered into an agreement with StarVista for the term of October 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, for a total obligation amount of $1,291,164, to provide evidence-based parent-education and short-term clinical services to support the prevention of child abuse under the “Together for Families” program. This program provides parents/caregivers with tools and strategies needed to reduce parental stress through a strength-based and short-term approach. Services are delivered to families at school, in community settings, and/or in-home settings based on the family’s need. The goal of these services is to keep children safely in their homes and prevent children from entering child welfare, juvenile justice, and psychiatric emergency services systems.
On June 21, 2024, HSA executed a director-level amendment with StarVista to extend the term by 12 months for a new term of October 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025 and increased funding by $25,000 for a new total obligation amount not to exceed $1,316,164 to continue providing child abuse prevention services without a gap until a Board-level amendment could be completed.
DISCUSSION:
HSA is requesting to further amend the agreement with StarVista to increase funding by $1,693,252 for a new total obligation amount not to exceed $3,009,416 to cover the cost to continue providing child abuse prevention services for the additional 12-month term added under the previous amendment.
StarVista will continue to provide individual, child, and family therapy; family partner-case management services (skill-building, connection to resources); parent education; and parent support groups/workshops in the community.
Through the provision of services, parents will learn positive parenting skills and children and families will have their behavioral and mental health needs met. Parents and children will receive additional support based on needs identified through initial intake, screening, and assessments including linkages to community resources.
The resolution contains the County’s standard provisions allowing amendments of the County’s fiscal obligations by a maximum of $25,000 (in aggregate).
County Attorney has reviewed and approved the resolution and the amendment as to form.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
|
Measure |
FY 2023-24 Actuals |
FY 2024-25 Anticipated |
|
Percent of families and children with treatment plans that will demonstrate improvement in one or more areas of concern as shown by the attainment of treatment plan goal(s). |
84% |
85% |
EQUITY IMPACT:
This agreement positively impacts underserved families in San Mateo County because of its inclusive approach to providing child abuse prevention and family support services. Families outside the identified school-based service areas may face challenges due to geographical distance and limited transportation options, hindering equitable access. To address these challenges, staff are currently enhancing outreach initiatives and collaborating with stakeholders.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The term of the Agreement is October 1, 2023 through June 30, 2025 for a total obligation amount of $3,009,416 of which this amendment adds $1,693,252. Funding for this amendment is anticipated to be through Child Welfare Services revenue, Child Abuse Prevention funds through Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program, Family First Transition Grant, Children’s Trust Fund AB2994, and State Realignment. There is no Net County Cost. Funds for these services are included in the FY 2024-25 Recommended Budget.