NCJ Number
72544
Date Published
1980
Length
28 pages
Annotation
This booklet describes an approach to establishing a volunteer shelter bed program which provides a nonsecure residential alternative to status offenders who need shelter for a short period of time.
Abstract
The program involves individuals in the community who volunteer a place in their homes for a short period of time for children who are awaiting a court hearing, permanent placement in foster homes, or a return to their families. It has been successfully implemented in Florida and is being duplicated throughout the country. Experience has shown that this alternative works well in small communities and rural areas where juvenile facilities are not cost effective. Community willingness to participate in the program also is necessary. Other issues must be explored, once the idea is accepted: what would be the program's goals in terms of number of beds and other concerns, who would operate the program and under what authority, and how much staff and funding would be required? Several tasks are required to start the program: locating potential volunteer homes, screening and/or licensing volunteer homes, orienting volunteers to the program, matching youths with families, and assisting families who have agreed to take a child. The program may be initiated and administered by either a public or private organization at either the State or local level. Finally, the goals, organizational structure, policies, and procedures guiding a program will depend upon who is sponsoring the effort. The report includes sample record forms.