Preparing Teens for Young Adulthood
Editor’s note: In a previous edition of Caring for Kids, we introduced you to the LCCS Independent Living caseworkers and advocates who work directly with youth ages 14-18. This article explores how that LCCS team prepares some 200 teens for young adulthood and beyond. Teens live in a lot of different settings in Lucas County—with foster or kinship caregivers, in group homes, and, […]
January – LCCS Community Conversation
Lucas County Children Services is starting the New Year by bringing its community conversation events to a new neighborhood. LCCS will be at the Heatherdowns Branch Library, 3265 Glanzman Rd, Toledo, OH 43614 on Monday January 26, from 5 – 7pm This community conversation and listening session will provide the opportunity for residents to […]
Learn About Foster Care
The New Year is the perfect time to learn about becoming a foster parent. There is a shortage of foster families in our area LCCS is offering two opportunities in January to learn about the need, and the requirements for becoming a foster caregiver. These are free, informational programs open to all. In-Person […]
Isaiah 117 House Takes Possession of New Home
The nonprofit Isaiah 117 House organization took possession of its new home in Oregon on November 24 a short five months after construction began. Moline Builders presented the keys to Jennifer Bohnsack, location lead for Isaiah 117 House Lucas County, and former LCCS foster parent. According to Jennifer, Moline Builders worked with contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers […]
Why The NASW Code of Ethics Matters To You
LCCS has adopted the National Association of Social (NASW) Code of Ethics as a guide to shape our policies, strengthen our daily practice, and support ethical, transparent, and culturally responsive service delivery. During times when conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion may feel uncertain or confusing, the Code clearly outlines our professional responsibilities to […]
LCCS Board Meetings Now Online
Lucas County residents are now able to attend meetings of the Lucas County Children Services (LCCS) Board of Trustees in real time, via ZOOM. Meetings take place on the third Wednesday of every month at 3 pm unless otherwise announced. To attend the meeting, click: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89804129466 Registration is not required; however, anyone wishing to address […]
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
November is designated as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month (NHYAM). This important recognition raises awareness and promotes action to help young people experiencing homelessness. Organizations and individuals participate in events, supply drives, education, and social media campaigns to highlight the issue and support vulnerable youth. Unlike general homelessness awareness, this month specifically addresses the unique […]
Successful Ride-Alongs
Each October, the Public Children Services Association of Ohio (PCSAO) asks its member county agencies to reach out to their elected representatives and invite them to “ride along” with caseworkers doing the hard job of ensuring the safety of children. The hope is that legislators will become more familiar with the needs of children services […]
Doctors in the House
LCCS is doing its part to ensure that future pediatricians recognize and understand the impact of child abuse even before they begin seeing patients of their own. The agency recently welcomed Dr. Grace Cudjo and Dr. Astha Poudel, pediatric residents from Mercy St. Vincent’s Hospital, for a day-long training with our child welfare professionals. They […]
Protecting Children’s Health
For any number of reasons, children who become involved with Lucas County Children Services may not have had the benefit of quality, consistent healthcare in their past. Their families may have moved a lot, lacked transportation, or were unable to afford medical care. Fortunately, youth whose families do become involved with LCCS receive the important […]