Family Keys Program Demonstrates Success in Supporting Wisconsin Families and Reducing Costs

The Marathon County Board's recent educational meeting highlighted the success of the Family Keys program, which has significantly impacted local families by providing essential support services. The program, designed to help families maintain housing and avoid foster care placements, has proven to be both beneficial for families and cost-effective for the county.

During the meeting, officials shared compelling stories of families who have achieved milestones through the program, such as opening their first bank accounts and improving credit scores to secure loans for vehicles. These accomplishments, while seemingly small, represent major steps toward stability for the families involved. The program has not only helped families stay together but has also contributed to the community's overall well-being.

In financial terms, the Family Keys program has demonstrated substantial savings for the county. In 2023 and 2024, the program spent approximately $234,528 to support 53 children, preventing potential foster care costs that could have exceeded $491,239. This translates to a savings of $256,711 for the county, showcasing the program's effectiveness in reducing the need for more expensive out-of-home care.

However, the meeting also addressed a pressing concern: the Family Keys grant from the state of Wisconsin ended on June 30, leaving the program without its primary funding source. Despite this setback, officials expressed optimism about the program's future. They plan to leverage existing funds creatively to sustain the program without requiring additional county funding. By utilizing targeted safety support funds and the Family First Prevention Services grant, the board aims to continue providing vital services to families in need.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the importance of community partnerships and the need for ongoing support to ensure families can access the resources they require. As the board looks to the future, the focus remains on maintaining the success of the Family Keys program and its positive impact on the community.