HOW TO OPEN A GROUP HOME?
If you wish to operate a group home, first determine the type(s) of children you want to serve. You are strongly encouraged to discuss your plans with staff at the county social services or probation departments or other placing agencies to get an idea of the services and programs needed by the children they will place.
ABOUT GROUP HOMES / RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITIES
WHAT IS A RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITY/GROUP HOME?
A residential treatment facility or group home provides 24-hour nonmedical care and supervision to children in a structured environment. Services are provided, at least in part, by staff employed by the licensee. Group home licensees are responsible for the care and supervision of children in their facilities.
These facilities are licensed by the State Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division.
WHO PLACES CHILDREN IN GROUP HOMES?
County social services and probation departments place the greatest numbers of children in group homes. Additionally, county mental health agencies and regional centers place children. Parents, individuals or families may also place children for whom they have legal custody. Such placements are called private placements.
WHAT TYPES OF CHILDREN ARE PLACED IN GROUP HOMES?
Dependent Children
Children who are physically, sexually or emotionally abused, neglected or exploited or at risk of being abused, neglected or exploited. These children often have behavioral and/or emotional problems that prevent them from being cared for in a family environment. They are generally dependents of the Juvenile Court and placed by county social services departments.
Juvenile Wards
Children who are juvenile offenders. These children are generally wards of the Juvenile Court and are placed by county probation departments.
Developmentally Disabled
Children who are developmentally disabled. These children are generally placed by regional centers.
Seriously Emotionally Disturbed
Children who are identified as Seriously Emotionally Disturbed (SED) and require out of home placement in order to benefit from an educational program. These children are generally placed by county mental health agencies.
