| St. Ann's Children's Residential Program offers short-term care for up to 50 children in crisis, ages two days through twelve years. We are particularly sensitive to the needs of siblings and medically fragile youngsters, and offer placement to these children whenever possible.
Why are children placed at St. Ann's?
Family problems, homelessness, abuse, neglect, parental drug abuse or incarceration, hospitalization, and other disruptive conditions often require temporary removal of a child from his current living situation to a more protective environment.
What are the goals of the program?
Our main concerns are for the physical, social, and intellectual development of children. We strive to prepare them to return to their own homes, or for adoptive or foster care placements. As a member of the Consortium for Child Welfare, we participate in the development of a permanency plan for each child.
What sort of care do the children receive?
In addition to providing children in need a safe home, solid nutrition, and caring adults to look after them, St. Ann's multi-disciplinary team attends to their medical, developmental, and emotional needs. Medical issues are addressed by our pediatric nurse practitioner and registered nurses, as well as a physical therapist who visits St. Ann's regularly. Our clinical staff evaluates each child's emotional needs, conducts short-term individual or group therapy, and makes referrals when needed. We also advocate the early identification of developmental, physical and mental needs. Children in need of therapy may also receive help from other community resources while at St. Ann's.
What about education?
An infant/toddler developmental program is provided for very young children. Children in elementary grades attend local public schools, as do those who require special education. In conjunction with the public school teacher, staff also plans a developmental learning program for every school-age child.
Are other developmental services provided?
Yes, children participate in various discovery activities involving nature, art, speech and language. The staff plans a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to promote each child's physical, intellectual and social skills.
How is the child's family involved?
Family relationships are respected, and regular visiting is encouraged. Training and counseling services for the parents help provide the necessary foundation to make family reunification a possibility.
How is the program funded?
The Children's Residential Program receives partial funding through contracts with social service agencies in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Additional support comes from private contributions, foundation grants, and individuals who give through United Way.
For further information, call St. Ann's at (301) 559-5500 and ask to speak with one of the social workers in our Residential Children's Program.
St. Ann's Children's Residential Program is licensed through the Maryland State Department of Human Resources. |
