Dear Caregivers,
Respite is identified as an important support system for caregivers, while they are caring for our children. However, stranger respite was not in the best interest of the child(ren) as it caused unnecessary trauma. In partnership with caregivers, the Department developed normalcy respite which means caregivers using familiar providers when taking respite. Examples of normalcy respite providers are the caregiver’s family and friends that are familiar to the child.
We received funding to reimburse normalcy respite providers that are identified by foster parents. Funding will be available starting today and will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis, until the funds are depleted. This funding will ONLY be offered for normalcy respite to strongly encourage the use of familiar caregivers or peer-to-peer support versus stranger care.
Normalcy is defined as age and developmentally appropriate activities and experiences that allow children and youth to develop and grow in a nurturing environment and normal manner. Under normalcy standards, DFS supports and encourages foster parents to take the child(ren) in their care on family vacations and trips. Respite is not intended to replace the duties or obligations originally agreed to by DFS caregivers, (e.g. foster children are included in family holiday events, activities, and family vacations). Normalcy respite providers are expected to adhere to the DFS caregiver agreement and provide transportation to school, appointments, and family visits for the children.
Stranger respite causes unnecessary trauma to a child(ren). DFS requires caregivers to identify normalcy supports that are willing to provide respite so the child(ren) is familiar with where they are going when the family takes a respite.
To be considered for reimbursement of normalcy respite request, please notify your caseworker and email DFSPlacementRequestDL@ClarkCountyNV.gov 30 days ahead of the planned respite by email or phone. Details must include:
- Dates of the respite to include drop-off and pick-up times if known.
- Reason for the respite.
- An emergency number where the foster parent may be reached.
- The name, phone number, and address of the foster family providing the respite.
Following the respite, caregivers are responsible for filling out the attached DFS Normalcy Respite Receipt. The receipt must be turned in to your caseworker and emailed to DFSPlacementRequestDL@ClarkCountyNV.gov. Respite providers are then reimbursed at the current approved DFS normalcy respite reimbursement rate.
Please note that caregivers are eligible for 14 respite days per year, beginning January 1 and ending December 31. They are not cumulative from one year to the next.
