Family Preservation Services (FPS)/Intensive Family Preservation Services (IFPS) is a program designed to reinforce the strengths of each family to prevent the out-of-home placement of children. This model of in-home services was codified by the Washington State legislature in 1992 (RCW 74.14C). Eligibility is based on risk of removal: if the referring Social Worker feels one or more children is at substantial/imminent risk of removal from the home unless significant changes are made within the family, a referral can be made to FPS/IFPS.
Services focus on empowering the family to solve problems, become self-sufficient, and strengthen their relationships with a variety of community resources. To accomplish this, FPS/IFPS engages the family in counseling, role modeling, and advocacy with other institutions and agencies such as DCFS, courts, schools, mental health services, and so on. The primary focus is on helping families help themselves. This service can be accessed through your local DCFS Social Worker.