Family Preservation Services (FPS) are provided by Family Services of Northwestern Pennsylvania through a contract with Erie County Child Protective Services (CPS). The goals of the program are to protect children while preserving families and to prevent unnecessary placement of children by strengthening the adaptive capabilities of family members through teaching them new problem solving techniques.

Family Preservation Services offer intensive in-home counseling, support, casework, education, and crisis intervention services to families. Families are assisted to develop the ability to care for their children in their home and to provide a safe environment for their children.

Counselors work with clients two to five days per week. Staff members have an average caseload of six clients. Length of service depends on need, but the basic program is twelve weeks.

Program Eligibility

Families will be considered eligible for this service when:

• The identified client is a child age birth to eighteen years and currently receiving services from Child Protective Services.
• The placement of the child appears imminent as defined by Child Protective Services and other less intensive services would not suffice to prevent the placement.
• At least one parent/caretaker with whom the child resides consents to work with the intensive service.
• Family members agree that they are in a crisis that could result in placement and agree to allow a Family Preservation Services worker into their home at least three times a week.
• The preservation of a foster or adoptive placement can be enhanced by these intensive services.