256F.12 Grant program for respite care.
Subdivision 1. Respite care program. The commissioner of human services shall establish a grant program to provide respite care services to families or caregivers who are under stress and at risk of abusing or neglecting their children, families with children suffering from emotional problems, and families receiving child protective services.
Subd. 2. Service goals. Respite care programs shall provide temporary services for families or caregivers in order to:
(1) allow the family to engage in the family's usual daily activities;
(2) maintain family stability during crisis situations;
(3) help preserve the family unit by lessening pressures that might lead to divorce, institutionalization, neglect, or child abuse;
(4) provide the family with rest and relaxation;
(5) improve the family's ability to cope with daily responsibilities; and
(6) make it possible for individuals with disabilities to establish independence and enrich their own growth and development.
Subd. 3. Definition. "Respite care" means in-home or out-of-home temporary, nonmedical child care for families and caregivers who are under stress and at risk of abusing or neglecting their children, and families with children suffering from emotional problems. Respite care shall be available for time periods varying from one hour to two weeks.
In-home respite care is provided in the home of the person needing care.
Out-of-home respite care will be given in the provider's home or other facility. In these cases, the provider's home or facility must be currently licensed for day care or foster home care.
Subd. 4. Sliding fee scale. The commissioner shall establish a sliding fee scale that takes into account family income, expenses, and ability to pay. Grant funds shall be used to subsidize the respite care of children. Funded projects must:
(1) prevent and reduce mental, physical, and emotional stress on parents and children;
(2) provide training for caregivers;
(3) establish a network of community support groups and resources for families;
(4) conduct an intake assessment in order to identify the presenting problems and make appropriate referrals;
(5) provide age appropriate programming; and
(6) ensure that respite care providers complete at least 120 hours of training in child development, child care, and related issues.
Subd. 5. Repealed, 1997 c 7 art 2 s 67
HIST: 1Sp1993 c 1 art 3 s 28
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes