Stearns County’s Approach to Child Welfare Recognized with National Award

(KNSI) – Stearns County’s Human Services Department has received national acclaim for its approach to family and children’s services.

The department’s Juvenile Community Action Team (JCAT) was awarded a 2024 Achievement Award by the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizing outstanding county government programs. JCAT was named the best program in the children and youth category from among over 2,000 applicants.

Established in 2022 to address a surge in child welfare cases during the COVID-19 pandemic, the team works with kids and families at risk of child maltreatment or involvement in the criminal justice system. By cooperating with schools, law enforcement, healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and probation and social services staff, workers identify young people with behavioral and mental health needs who are susceptible to placement in hospitals, jails, or county buildings. The team then works directly with families to address issues before they escalate into a crisis, allowing families to make decisions about their own needs.

The team has improved outcomes for families and saved the county money. Early intervention and JCAT’s support network has reduced the number of children entering out-of-home care and decreased the county’s out-of-home placement budget by over $400,000.

Human Services Administrator Melissa Huberty attributed JCAT’s success to the collaborative efforts of the many partners involved in the program. By identifying issues early and adopting innovative approaches, JCAT is making a positive impact on the lives of the community it serves.

___