SERVICES
STAT
Our Screening Stabilization and Transition (STAT) program provides short-term care for children and youth entering the child welfare system because of abuse or neglect, or the need to change foster homes. Located at the Alameda County Assessment Center, STAT staff help ease the transition into foster care by providing immediate support, comfort, and mental health services.
ENTERING THE FOSTER CARE SYSTEM
When children and youth first arrive at the Assessment Center, they enter a welcoming and attentive environment. We focus on the child’s needs at that moment - whether that’s a change of clothing, a hot meal, or helping them get to bed. Staff orient the youth to the Assessment Center, assess immediate mental and physical health risks, and talk with the youth about how they’re doing. While STAT staff care for children and youth, Alameda County Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) staff look for a foster home that meets the child’s needs.
WHAT HAPPENS AT THE ASSESSMENT CENTER?
While youth are at the Assessment Center, STAT staff get to know the child through conversation and activities like making meals, doing arts and crafts, playing games, or doing schoolwork together. Connecting and actively engaging with youth throughout their time at the Assessment Center instills a sense of stability and safety. During their stay, STAT clinicians conduct a mental health screening to determine what supports are needed once the child leaves the Center. Ultimately, we help children adjust during a tumultuous time by getting to know what matters to them and meeting their immediate needs.
TRANSITION SUPPORT
WestCoast staff support the transition to a new home by sharing information with the caregiver about the child’s preferences, experiences, and strengths. This may include background on the child's educational needs, what helps them sleep at night, or the importance of getting to basketball practice. Our transition process promotes stability and relationship-building between the child and caregiver.
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STAT clinicians continue to work with the child and caregiver for up to 90 days after youth leave the Assessment Center. Staff also help connect the youth with other resources they might need, such as ongoing mental health services.
