Leveraging the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) is the smartest, most cost-effective investment in services that will keep children out of foster care. Polling shows the vast majority (81 percent) of Texans across the political spectrum support increased funding for services that prevent child neglect. Furthermore, data show that Texas families do not have access to mental health or substance use services that prevent crises that often lead to a child entering foster care. Unfortunately, the House and Senate base budgets do not include the steps necessary to draw down funding available under FFPSA.
To address these challenges and opportunities, 23 Texas groups have issued recommendations to the Legislature for leveraging federal funding available through the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA, or Family First Act).