In a recent meeting of the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners, officials discussed the approval of a Select Source Waiver for Youth Respite Beds at Shiloh House, aimed at providing critical support for at-risk youth. The proposal, presented by Cheryl and newly appointed Jessica Williamson, seeks authorization for the chair to sign a contract for the state fiscal year 2024-2025, which exceeds $1 million and is essential for the operation of five respite beds designated for youth aged 8 to 17.

The Family Resource Pavilion, where these beds are located, serves as a short-term intervention facility for youth facing potential removal from their homes or those already in foster care. The program offers a range of services, including family therapy, crisis management, and individualized treatment plans, with the goal of facilitating a return to stable home environments or finding appropriate foster placements.

The total cost for the two-year contract is projected at $1.4 million, funded primarily through state and federal resources, with a small county contribution already accounted for in the budget. The board expressed unanimous support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of such services in preventing long-term institutionalization of children.

Additionally, the meeting addressed a second Select Source Waiver for the Arapahoe County Collaborative Management Program, which aims to streamline services for youth involved in the juvenile justice system. This program, transitioning oversight to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), emphasizes collaborative treatment planning among various stakeholders, including mental health professionals and school districts, to enhance outcomes for families.

Commissioners highlighted the necessity of these programs in providing timely interventions and avoiding the escalation of youth crises, reinforcing the county's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations through comprehensive care strategies.