1. Program Definition and Services
Family Support Services in Maryland provide community-based services to promote the safety, well-being, and healthy development of children and families. Services include:
- Strengthening adoptive, foster, and extended families
- Enhancing parenting skills and confidence
- Promoting healthy child development
- Supporting family stability and healthy marriages
- Offering resources and referrals to community services
2. Regulations
Family Support Services are governed by various regulations, including COMAR 07.02.01.04 (Services to Families with Children).
3. Licensing or Certification
Specific licensing requirements are not explicitly stated . Providers should contact the Maryland Department of Human Services for detailed information on licensing or certification requirements.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Maryland Department of Human Services oversees Family Support Services, with the Division of Early Childhood at the Maryland State Department of Education managing some early childhood initiatives.
5. Application Process
The application process is not explicitly detailed in the provided results. Potential providers should contact the Maryland Department of Human Services or the Maryland Family Network for specific application procedures.
6. Required Documentation
Providers must maintain:
- Staff qualifications and training records
- Service delivery documentation
- Family assessments and case plans
- Compliance with health and safety regulations
7. Timeline for Approval
The available results do not provide a specific timeline for approval. Providers should contact the relevant state agencies for this information.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process in the provided results.
9. Pre-Application Training
While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, providers must ensure staff are trained in areas such as:
- Child development
- Family engagement strategies
- Community resource navigation
10. Additional Notes
- Family Support Centers, overseen by the Maryland Family Network, provide free services to families with children from birth to age three.
- The Judith P. Hoyer Early Learning Hubs offer comprehensive support services in specific Title I school districts.
- Providers may need to participate in local Early Childhood Advisory Councils to coordinate services and resources.
- As of March 6, 2025, providers should be aware of any updates or changes to regulations that may have occurred since the last documented information.