Frequently Asked Questions

How many children does your facility accommodate?
We have the capacity to accommodate 24 children. Our locations are private residences within the community, situated in neighborhoods to promote inclusion of the youth.

What DSS agencies have you partnered with?
We partner with the following agencies:

• Iredell County
• Rowan County
• Alexander County
• Union County
• Wilkes County
• Catawba County
• Yadkin County
• Cabarrus County
• Rockingham County
• Madison County
• Ashe County
• Burke County

What is your admission policy and application process?
Before placement, we require phone contact with an administrator and relevant information about the child's needs. For a smoother process, it's helpful to provide the child’s full name, birthdate, and social security number. We aim to accept placements as quickly as possible.

We are licensed for Level I care, and applications can be obtained from the administrative offices of CHIC. Placement decisions are made promptly.

What is your staff-to-child ratio during day and evening hours?
The staff-to-child ratio is 1:6 during awake hours and 1:8 during sleep hours. Typically, two staff members are on duty.

Do you transport children to out-of-county appointments, including court?
We strive to accommodate transportation needs, including out-of-county appointments, with sufficient notice and staff availability.

What types of activities are offered to the children during the day and on weekends?
Children participate in family-style activities during weekdays and recreational activities on weekends, such as zoo trips, museum visits, hiking, swimming, and more. They also engage in personal development activities like music lessons or martial arts. Special events may include trips to Carowinds or local ballgames. Activities are planned with input from the children, ensuring age-appropriate options are available. Volunteers and community partners are involved, and all activities are supervised by staff.

What accommodations are made for children’s religious practices?
We respect each child’s cultural and religious background, ensuring care is aligned with their traditions and beliefs.

What documentation is required at placement?

• Birth Certificate
• Social Security Card
• Immunization Record
• Physical (within the past year)
• TB Test (within the past year)
• Dental Exam (within the past year)
• Medical Insurance Information
• Social History
• Visitation Log
• Juvenile Petition
• Court Orders/Summary
• DSS Out-of-Home FS Agreement
• School Transcripts & Last Report Cards

What employment development opportunities are available?
Youth age 14+ may participate in employment opportunities approved by their social worker. Our Youth Development Program offers part-time work experience through our Special Treasures store, as well as internship programs with local businesses. We also help set up bank accounts for participants. Youth may work no more than 20 hours a week while enrolled in school. The program includes Employment Readiness Certification through Mitchell Community College.

What are your hours of operation?
Our homes operate 365 days a year, and placements are accepted when openings are available.

Can you provide me with a copy of the financial/admissions agreement?
Yes, the admissions agreement must be signed prior to placement.

Other Financial Information
Please provide the email and contact name for invoicing and accounts payable by the 15th of the month. If placement occurs at the end of the month, contact information should be provided at admission.

We can email copies of our licenses, W-9 forms, and other supporting documentation upon request.

For emergency clothing funds, signed documentation or an email from the social worker authorizing the purchase is required. Receipts for reimbursements will be scanned and emailed along with the purchase authorization.