NJ Department of Children & Families Exchange Parent Aide Program (EPA)
Exchange Parent Aide (EPA) is a supportive and educational in-home services program for parents and caregivers. It is built on an evidence-supported model, designed to increase safety and reduce risk factors associated with child abuse and neglect.
How EPA Support Families:
In-Home Sessions:
Parent Aides are matched with families to provide them with individualized support that includes, but is not limited to: Assessment of family needs and dynamics, Teaching problem solving and coping skills, Observing and modeling effective parenting, Attending to their medical, dental, and mental health care needs, Monitoring safe housing, Education on child development and child safety, Reduction of parental stressors and risk factors that lead to child abuse, neglect, and domestic violence
GROUP SESSIONS:
Parenting support groups are also provided to the parents to help the family develop social supports and connect with other parents.
Who can receive these services:
• Families currently involved with the child welfare system
• Parents and caregivers willing to participate in services
• Families receiving services through DCP&P with at least one youth (ages 0-17) living at home
Who provides these services:
• Parent Aides trained in the Exchange Parent Aide model will support parenting related needs
• Care Managers will support family’s concrete needs
What Families will receive:
• Parent Aides typically provide a one-hour home visit, 1-2 times a week. Frequency of visits may be reduced based on need
• Care Managers provide 3-4 contacts per month, approximately 90 minutes of care management per family/per month
• Parenting Support Groups, as needed
How long families can receive these services for:
• 6 months
• Extension up to 11 months, based on need
• The DCP&P case does not need to remain open for services to continue
| Eligibility | Families currently involved with the child welfare system Parents and caregivers willing to participate in services Families receiving services through DCP&P with at least one youth (ages 0-17) living at home |
| Event Type |
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| Age Groups |
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| Community Services |
Family & Support Services |
| Health Services |
Behavioral / Mental Health |
| Payment Types |
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Last Updated: 02/25/25