Centre County children and youth staff asked July 22 that the board place three foster-care contract renewals on next week's consent agenda. The contracts provide residential and group-home services for dependent and delinquent youth and list state and county shares.

Contract summaries. Staff said the Hope's Haven Residential Services renewal totals $265,000 for July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, with a state share of $212,000 and a county share of $53,000. KidsPeace National Centers' renewal was listed at $50,000 (state $40,000, county $10,000). The Bear Foundation renewal was listed at $40,000 (state $32,000, county $8,000).

Why it matters. The nut graf: county staff said these agencies provide group-home and specialized treatment placements for higher-needs children; maintaining contracts supports continuity of care for those youth.

Board action. Commissioners moved to add the three children and youth items to next week's consent agenda; the motion carried. Staff reiterated an ongoing need for foster parents and other community supports to backfill parental and placement needs.

Next steps. Contracts will be considered on next week's consent agenda for final approval; staff will continue outreach to recruit foster parents and voluntary supports for placements.