Youth Matters
Youth Matters helps children and youth in DeKalb County with serious emotional and behavioral disturbances who have a primary diagnosis of mental illness and who are placed in/at risk of placement in a Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTFs) or other residential programs. The ultimate goal of Youth Matters is assisting youth in reaching a goal of permanency and finding a “Forever Family." Youth Matters provides intensive care coordination and through the wraparound process detailed in the Choices overview will:
- Arrange for respite
- Assist with transportation
- Connect families to community resources
- Provide family support using Family Support Partners
- Arrange for Behavioral Aide supports
- Creatively fill gaps through access to financial support
- Advocate in school, court, juvenile justice and child welfare systems
- Link to traditional and non-traditional treatment services
- Assist with transition between community systems
- Present opportunities for leadership and personal growthArrange for respite
Eligibility: Families with children and youth located in DeKalb County, ages 5-21, with a primary mental health diagnosis. Eligibility is determined by DeKalb County Department of Family and Children Services or the Department of Juvenile Justice’s DeKalb County office.
Referrals: Contact DeKalb County DFCS or Department of Juvenile Justice’s DeKalb Multi-Service Center office. For more information, contact the CHRIS Kids Choices office.
Phone: 404-671-4084
Fax: 404-244-4923
Email: cmewrap@chriskids.org