Child Welfare and Foster Care

Building Pathways to Independence: How AFS Supports Transition-Age Youth in Marin County

By Alternative Family Services / August 15, 2026

Becoming an adult is rarely a single step. Most young people rely on family members, mentors, teachers, and other trusted adults as they learn to navigate housing, education, employment, finances,…

Understanding California’s Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure: What It Means for AFS

By Alternative Family Services / August 15, 2026

California is preparing for a significant change in how foster care funding is determined and delivered. The Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure, commonly referred to as the Tiered Rate Structure…

Milestone Moment: Finding a New Way to Connect

By Alternative Family Services / July 26, 2026

When 10-year-old KJ* entered AFS’s E-ISFC program in January 2026, he was having difficulty managing intense emotions and experiences that often left him overwhelmed. His distress could escalate quickly, sometimes…

Understanding Enhanced Intensive Services Foster Care (E-ISFC)

By Alternative Family Services / July 26, 2026

Family-based care can offer children and youth consistency, connection, and the everyday experience of belonging to a household. Some young people, however, have complex behavioral health, emotional, or medical needs…

Understanding the Tiers Within the Proposed New Tiered Rate Structure

By Alternative Family Services / June 27, 2026

California is preparing for a “seismic shift” in how foster care supports are structured and funded. The new Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure, or TRS, is designed to move the…

Wraparound Immediate Needs Explained

By Alternative Family Services / June 26, 2026

California is preparing for a major transformation in how foster care supports are structured and funded. As part of the state’s new Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure, the Wraparound Immediate…

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