Alternative Response Program (ARP)
The Alternative Response Program (ARP) holds many
differences than other services provided by Community Care. For most other
programs of Community Care, individuals can make referrals either for
themselves or on behalf of somebody else in order to become connected with a
needed service. In the Alternative Response Program, all referrals come from
the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) – specifically the Office of
Child and Family Services (OCFS).
The Alternative Response Program was created by DHHS in
order to partner with local DHHS districts to investigate allegations of child
abuse and neglect. The reports that are sent to the Alternative Response
Program tend to be those reports that DHHS has determined to be low to moderate
risk. Our Alternative Response Social Workers contact the family to explain the
nature of the report, conduct a child safety assessment, partner with
parents/care providers to assist them in identifying supports they feel would
be helpful, make referrals for services, and monitor progress towards goals that are identified to
ensure child safety. There are times when cases may be closed after the safety
assessment is completed if it is determined there are no child safety concerns.
Other times, the social worker could remain involved with the family for up to
4 months.