Thanks to a pilot project grant from the Department of Human Services, Orchard Place has been able to start the Multi-Dimensional Treatment Foster Care Program.The program is designed to help children who are leaving the Orchard Place Psychiatric Medical Institute for Children facility transition back to their homes. Foster families will serve as the “bridge” between treatment and the “future” for these children. The children being served are between the ages of ten and seventeen. Upon entering treatment at Orchard Place these children are considered seriously emotionally disturbed and in need of 24-hour supervision. The children are discharged as treatment goals are achieved. To ensure that the best care is provided for these children, we ask that one parent stays home and that no other foster children are present in the home. As with most other foster care placements, the foster family would need to be willing to work with the child’s birth family. Orchard Place will provide a number of supports, including an additional monthly stipend, additional respite care, trainings, and a team of individuals to work with the foster family, the birth family, and the child.

• A monthly stipend in addition to the monthly stipend paid by DHS. This stipend will begin as soon as the family is approved for this program, even if no child is placed in the home.
  
• An MDT caseworker who will be available for regular home visits, phone calls, and crisis intervention.
  
• Relevant, helpful trainings.
  
• Access to the child’s Orchard Place treatment team, including the psychiatrist.
  
• Referrals to other service providers as necessary.
  
• In addition to the respite care provided by DHS, Orchard Place offers an additional 5 hours per month.

• One parent in the home full time.
  
• No other foster children in the home. Up to two children from Orchard Place can be in the home at a time.
  
• Be an active member of the therapeutic team.
  
• Work closely with the child’s birth family.
  
• Regularly report the child's progress.
  
• Coordinate therapy and medical care.
  
• Attend meetings and school staffings for the child.

Ashley Olson, BSW
MDT Foster Care Program Coordinator
515-287-9652
515-202-3863
aolson@orchardplace.org