local annual report 2012-2013 - first 5...

Local Annual Report 2012-2013

ii.

First 5 Tulare County 2012-2013 Local Annual Report

Table of Contents

FOREWORD...................................................................................................................................... iv.

ACROSS THE COUNTY ................................................................................................................... v.

FISCAL DASHBOARD ..................................................................................................................... vi.

FAMILY RESOURCE CENTERS

CSET South County Family Resource Centers .......................................................................... 2

Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District Family Resource Center ............................................ 4

Lindsay Unified School District Family Resource Center ............................................................ 6

Parenting Network Visalia Family Resource Center ................................................................... 8

Woodlake Unified School District Woodlake Family Resource Center ................................... 10

HEALTH PROGRAMS

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) 0-5 Program ...................................................... 14

Family HealthCare Network Kinder Care Dental ...................................................................... 16

Family Services of Tulare County Early Childhood Mental Health Program ........................... 18

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Hospitalist Program .......................................... 20

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Specialty Care Project ..................................... 22

Sierra View Local Healthcare District Breastfeeding Initiative ................................................. 24

Tulare Community Health Clinic Dental Screening, Varnish, and Education Program .......... 26

Tulare District Healthcare System Breastfeeding Program ..................................................... 28

PARENT EDUCATION/STRONG FAMILIES

County of Tulare Sheriff’s Department Gang Awareness Parenting Project .......................... 32

Family Services of Tulare County Addressing Child Trauma (ACT) ....................................... 34

SCHOOL READINESS PROGRAMS

Cutler Orosi Joint Unified School District School Readiness Program .................................... 38

Save the Children Early Steps to School Success ................................................................... 40

iii.

Traver Joint Elementary School District School Readiness Program ..................................... 42

Tulare City School District Comprehensive School Readiness Program ................................ 44

Tulare County Office of Education School Readiness Improvement Project .......................... 46

Visalia Unified School District Ivanhoe First 5 Program ........................................................... 48

FIRST 5 ADMINISTERED PROGRAMS

First 5 Tulare County Kits for New Parents .............................................................................. 52

First 5 Tulare County Special Project Grants ........................................................................... 54

TABLE 1: 2012-2013 Cost per Client by Program ........................................................................ 59

iv.iv iv.

FOREWORD

The First 5 Tulare County Commission is responsible for allocation of Proposition 10 tobacco

tax funds to improve the lives of young children so that they are able to enter school healthy and

ready to learn. Program partners around the county including school districts, county agencies, and

community based organizations utilize Proposition 10 funding to provide services designed to

achieve the outcomes outlined by the Commission in their strategic plan.

For the year ending June 30, 2013, First 5 Tulare County invested nearly $4.6 million in

programs to enhance children’s health and school readiness and to strengthen their families. By

year’s end, over 19,000 children and nearly 12,000 caregivers benefitted in some way from

Proposition 10 funding. This report provides a comprehensive overview of funded programs and the

work they did on behalf of these children and families.

The strategic plan addresses four result areas and sets target allocation percentages for

each. For the 2012-2013 year, actual expenditures closely aligned with estimated allocation levels.

2012-2013 Program Expenditures—Actual Amounts Compared to Strategic Plan Estimates

Primary Result Area Estimated

Allocation Level 2012-2013

Expenditures

Children Are Healthy 55% 54%

Children Are Ready for School 25% 23%

Families Are Strong 19% 22%

Service Systems Function Well 1% 1%

As always, we acknowledge the substantial efforts of funded providers. Without all they do,

the accomplishments detailed in this report would not have been achieved. Data collection was

made possible by Mosaic Network, Inc. and their GEMS system. Barbara Aved and Associates

analyzed data from selected programs to provide greater depth to our understanding of outcomes.

First 5 staff compiled the information and wrote the report under the leadership of Program Officer II

Michele Morrow.

All of us associated with First 5 Tulare County are proud of what is accomplished with

Proposition 10 funds. This report provides information about activities and outcomes so that others

may share this pride in all that is done to support Tulare County’s youngest residents.

v.

ACROSS THE COUNTY

Over the years First 5 Tulare County’s strategies have been refined and improved. One

of the significant improvements has been in our approach to evaluation. We went from

outsourcing evaluation activities at over $300,000 per year to doing most of the work in-house

and contracting with a consultant at $50,000 per year. With the savings, First 5 has been able

to fund additional programs.

With the new approach to evaluation we wanted to look at performance measures

across programs to gauge broader impacts. Staff worked with our data collection system to

develop common milestones that give us the ability take a “big picture” view.

Following are the results from common milestones for fiscal year 2012-2013:

8,241 home visits were conducted.

2,114 families received home visits.

The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ Developmental Assessment) was

administered 842 times to 380 different children.

168 children were enrolled in health insurance by First 5 providers.

794 children attended First 5 funded preschool programs.

7,954 families received basic and emergency services.

5,635.75 hours of professional development training was provided to First 5 funded program staff.

7,024 live births were reported by our three hospitals.

REVENUE:

EXPENDITURES:

FUND BALANCE:

vi.

Proposition 10 Revenue is generated by a state excise tax on tobacco products and accounts for the overwhelming majority of revenue for First 5 Tulare County. Investment Earnings are the net of interest earned at financial institutions and unrealized gains/losses on investments in the County Treasury. Other Revenue consist of miscellaneous refunds.

Government Accounting Standards require categorization of fund balance. Committed fund balance represents resources that are committed for executed contracts. Nonspendable fund balance represent the elements of fund balance that cannot be spent due to their form (i.e. deposits and prepaid expenses).

Program Expenditures make up the large majority of total expenditures and represent amounts that directly relate to programs for children ages zero through five and their families. Data Management/Evalauation expenditures are for collection, analysis, and reporting of data generated by the programs. Administration expenditures represent amounts that centrally support the basic mission of the Commission.

Fiscal Dashboard for the Year Ending June 30, 2013

$5,763,654 (99.6%)

$22,274 (.4%)

$54

Prop. 10 Revenue

Investment Earnings

Other

$4,560,413 (85.8%)

$556,090 (10.5%)

$197,344 (3.7%)

Program

Administration

Data Management/Evaluation

$38,074 (.5%)

$8,237,551 (99.5%)

Nonspendable

Committed

Family Resource Centers

Family resource centers (FRCs) provide an array of services ranging from basic and emergency services to parenting education and family literacy. First 5 Tulare County funded FRCs in Cutler-Orosi, Earlimart, Lindsay, Tulare, Visalia, and Woodlake.

Family resource centers are a key strategy for addressing many of the challenges that families face. The primary focus of the FRCs is to promote healthy families in healthy communities. To improve outcomes for both families and communities, a family resource center brings together services and activities that educate, develop skills, and promote moving in positive directions for families. Family resource centers work with the entire family so they may become more self-reliant in areas affecting family stability including health, parenting, education, employment, housing, and financial management.

Family resource center services straddle three First 5 Tulare County Result Areas: Health, Strong Families, and School Readiness. For the 2012-2013 year, 67 percent of FRC funding came from Fund 10 First 5 General, and 33 percent came from Fund 30 Health.

1

Community Services Employment Training South County Family Resource Centers

Agency: Community Services Employment Training

Contract Period: December 1, 2012 – June 30, 2016 Total Program Funding: Budget: $ 400,000 12/13 Expended: $75,159

Program Summary: CSET operated Family Resource Centers in Tulare and Earlimart.

Result Areas As Reported To The State Improved Family

Functioning Improved Child Development

Improved Health Improved Systems of Care

X

Finances Total Award FY 12/13 Expended % of Budget Expended

$400,000 $75,159 19%

Cost Benefit Personnel

Costs Administrative

Expense Program Expense

Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$40,120 $2,390 $21,762 N/A 16.93% Contract Compliance/Administrative: The program had a slow start. Client numbers were low and scope of work activities were not being followed per the contract. First 5 staff met with CSET to assist with the development and implementation of the program. Outreach in both Tulare and Earlimart was enhanced to ensure community participation. Current Status/Update: Client enrollment has increased and all strategies in the scope of work are being fulfilled.

2

Program Description

Community Services Employment Training (CSET) South County Family Resource Centers project provided expanded services in Tulare and Earlimart. The seven month contract was utilized to plan and implement a full service program in each of the two communities by adding comprehensive case management and parent education.

Service Description

CSET staff received training and implemented Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors, a parenting skills curriculum consisting of 10-sessions, developed by and for low-income Latino parents with children ages zero through five. Case management was provided which included health insurance enrollment, early literacy activities, and referrals to all of CSET’s safety net services in addition to services provided by other agencies.

Overall Program Goals

The goal of the project was to assist families to become and remain self-sufficient, while giving the family a central, active role in determining their goals and steps they can take toward achieving them.

Interpretations

Two case managers received training in the Abriendo Puertas parenting curriculum.

Both centers were outfitted with child friendly program materials and supplies.

Senior staff developed and began to implement the outreach plan.

An advisory committee was formed in Earlimart and the process to develop one in Tulare began.

Eight families attended the first series of parenting classes by June 30, 2013. There were no pre– and posttests administered for this cohort.

3

Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District Family Resource Center

Agency: Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District

Contract Period: July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2015 Total Program Funding: Budget: $681,750 12/13 Expended: $212,101

Program Summary: The family resource center for Cutler-Orosi provided family support services and referrals to specialty services, case management, developmental screenings, family literacy activities for parents and children, transportation services, and parent education classes.




X

Finances Total Award FY 12/13 Expended % Expended

$681,750 $212,101 31%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$182,929 $2,974 $16,174 $409.46 5% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

4

Program Description

The Family Education Center was the family resource center for the communities of Cutler and Orosi. The program was based on four components of family literacy including: adult education, early childhood education, parenting education, and parent-child interaction. It provided a variety of services to families based on the unique needs of each family.

Service Description

Parents and teens took classes focused on health, child development, nutrition, and children’s social emotional well-being. Project staff developed curricula on health and safety-related topics in response to parents’ requests for information. Parents learned to actively engage with their children using books, games, and manipulatives. The evidenced-based curriculum Let’s Read Together was also used. Full case management services were available including resource and referral support, developmental and health screenings, and follow-up referrals.


The goals of this program were for parents to increase their use of appropriate parenting skills, to increase family literacy, for children to have access to early childhood development programs, to increase accessibility and usage of health care services for families, and to identify children’s special needs and/or health concerns.

Interpretations

169 families received case management services. 327 home visits were provided.

88 parents participated in interactive literacy activities with their children. Pre and post data show that overall, parents had more books at home and read and told stories to their children more frequently following the program.

101 children were linked to a medical provider. 106 children were referred to a dental provider.

18 children in the infant/toddler early childhood development program were assessed utilizing the Desired Results Developmental Profile. The children showed on average 30 percent improvement across four of the five domains and 38 percent improvement across the language/literacy domain. The program met their objective of having 90 percent of children participating in early childhood education showing statistically significant gains in developmental progress.

518 individuals were served by the program either through case management, basic and emergency services, or distribution of information.

5

Lindsay Unified School District Lindsay Family Resource Center

Agency: Lindsay Unified School District


Program Summary: The Lindsay Family Resource Center provided basic family support services, case management, insurance application assistance, home visiting, and parent education.




X


$678,750 $219,463 32%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$183,712 $10,813 $13,714 $298.99 5.39% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

6

Program Description

Lindsay First Steps operated as the family resource center in the community of Lindsay. The focus was to provide support that was relevant to the needs of families with children ages zero through five that would lead to healthier, happier, and more productive lives. The major components of the program were based on a needs analysis including comprehensive case management as well as specialized health related case management.

Service Description

Lindsay First Steps offered a variety of services to promote mental health, education, and awareness of community resources for children and families. Families received needs-based assessments, and from the results of the assessments family service plans were created. Case managers linked families to other community organizations according to the recommendations of the family plan and assessment outcomes.

Many families participated in a variety of parent education courses. Parent education courses and all other services offered at the First Steps program were facilitated by bicultural/bilingual professionally trained staff.


The overall goal of Lindsay First Steps was to provide health and developmental assessments to families of children zero through five then link these families with necessary community services. In doing so, First Steps aimed to increase the percentage of children with access to preventive, primary, and specialty health care, early screening, school readiness, identification and intervention services for developmental delay and mental/behavioral health issues.

Interpretation

162 families received case management services. 961 home visits were provided.

169 parents attended parenting classes at the FRC.

129 children were enrolled in a health insurance program. 159 children were referred to a medical provider. 125 children were referred to a dental provider.

48 children were enrolled in preschool/school readiness programs.

734 individuals were served by the program either through case management, basic and emergency services, or distribution of food.

7

Parenting Network Visalia Family Resource Center

Agency: Parenting Network


Program Summary: This program provided information and referral, counseling, case management, family support, basic and emergency services, and advocacy. Families of children with disabilities and special needs were also served.




X


$810,750 $265,810 33%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$222,411 $29,917 $13,481 $178.63 None Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

8

Program Description

Parenting Network provided the full array of family resource center services to the City of Visalia. They focused on intensive case management and home visitation to link children and families to appropriate resources. The program served families with typically developing children as well as those with special needs.

Service Description

Services included case management, food pantry distributions, parent education, CPR/first aid training, sign language classes, parent-to-parent support groups, application assistance for Medi-Cal and Healthy Families, and referrals to health, dental, therapeutic, and counseling services.

Families of children with special needs received assistance with the Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 systems with staff attending meetings with families as well as providing help to fill out paperwork.

Upon entry into the program, families identified goals and next steps to guide them to where they needed to be to stabilize their lives.


The program aimed to improve the lives of all families including those with special needs children by providing support and empowerment through centralized delivery of social, educational, health, advocacy, and other support services while respecting beliefs, values, customs, and cultures.

Interpretations

369 families received case management services. 906 home visits were conducted.

93.8 percent of case-managed families accomplished one or more of their family goals.

160 parents attended parenting classes at the FRC, and 58 percent completed all sessions of the parenting curriculum.

Case managers made 354 medical referrals and 407 dental referrals.

1,488 individuals were served by the program either through case management, basic and emergency services, or distribution of information.

9

Woodlake Unified School District Woodlake Family Resource Center

Agency: Woodlake Unified School District

Contract Period: July 1, 2012– June 30, 2015 Total Program Funding: Budget: $678,750 12/13 Expended: $215,369

Program Summary: The program provided direct services and case management including developmental screenings, health assessments, health insurance enrollment, prenatal classes, and support groups.




X


$678,750 $215,369 32%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$166,277 $23,114 $15,937 $231.57 4.89% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The 2013-2014 year brought challenges to the FRC. They experienced staff turnover which resulted in a performance deficiency. The issue has been resolved and First 5 staff is working closely with the program to ensure they stay on track for the remainder of the contract.

10

Program Description

The Woodlake Family Resource Center offered a variety of family support, health, and parent education activities to children and families in the community primarily through classes offered at the center and case management services with a focus on home visiting.

Service Description

Case managers and other staff administered health and developmental assessments and provided case management/home visitation services. The results of the assessments and home visits guided case managers in making appropriate referrals. Case managers followed up to ensure families linked with services.

Strong relationships and collaboration with other community organizations enabled the family resource center to facilitate service integration while assisting families with their needs. Application assistance for health insurance programs was provided, and specialized prenatal classes using the Comenzando Bien curriculum were conducted.


The overall goal of the Woodlake Family Resource Center was to provide culturally and linguistically competent services to Woodlake families in order to increase the emotional and physical health of young children in their community.

Interpretations

131 families received case management services.

892 home visits were conducted.

30 children were referred to a medical provider. 23 children were referred to a dentist.

61 children received a developmental assessment utilizing the Ages and Stages Questionnaire. A child was identified with a developmental delay and referred for services.

23 children were enrolled into a health insurance program.

16 pregnant women completed prenatal classes. Pre- and posttests indicated all women increased their knowledge about the benefits of prenatal care and healthy behaviors as a result of attending the classes.

930 individuals were served by the program either through case management, basic and emergency services, or distribution of information.

11

Health Programs

The overall health of young children in Tulare County is a major concern of the First 5 Commission. Children must be healthy to succeed in school and life. To accomplish this, the Commission dedicates one-half of each year’s Proposition 10 allocation to health programs, and the strategic plan estimates that 55 percent of program expenditures will support improvements to children’s physical, emotional, and dental health. For the 2012-2013 year, actual expenditures for health programs were 54 percent of total program expenditures.

Programs funded under the Health Result Area include support for hospitals and clinics, one-time projects such as the Pediatric Specialty Care Project, and other programs that improve children’s access to medical, dental, and behavioral health care.

13

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) 0-5 Program

Agency: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)


Program Summary: Volunteer advocates were recruited and trained to work with children zero through five-years-of-age in the child welfare system. Activities focused on insuring children’s health was consistently monitored, helping to see that health needs were met, and assessing for developmental delays.




X


$405,000 $135,000 33%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$129,045 $0 $5,955 $334.98 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

14

Program Description

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Tulare County, a non-profit organization formed in 1984, advocated for children who were victims of abuse and neglect by training community volunteers to represent the children’s best interests and to be their voice in court.

Service Description

CASA conducted a variety of activities to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children ages zero through five. CASA assured children were physically and emotionally healthy by providing case management/home visitation services utilizing agency staff and trained volunteers. CASA volunteers screened children for learning disabilities and developmental delays. Each volunteer advocate received 42 hours of training and eight hours of courtroom observation to become court appointed.

CASA staff provided training in the areas of mandated child abuse reporting, cultural diversity, and early childhood development to para-professionals, professionals, and other community members.


CASA 0-5 Program goals were to monitor foster children ensuring consistent medical and dental care; to increase the number of children with a permanent placement; decrease the number of placement changes; and decrease the amount of time children spent in foster care.

Interpretations

403 foster children ages zero through five were served by volunteer advocates and/or program staff.

99 percent of the children were current on well child exams and immunizations for the year.

74 percent received dental exams.

1,384 home visits were completed by trained volunteer advocates.

91 percent of the children assigned to a CASA advocate had permanent placement upon case closure.

CASA children spent less time in foster care than children not assigned.

County Foster Care system reports indicated the average number of placements for all children were 1.32. CASA assigned children average placements were 1.63.

15

Family HealthCare Network Kinder Care Dental

Agency: Family HealthCare Network


Program Summary: The Kinder Care Dental Program provided screenings and fluoride varnishes at preschools, schools, WIC sites, and at other agencies working with young children.




X


$368,275 $125,663 34%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$106,874 $1,320 $17,469 $16.23 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

16

Program Description

The Family HealthCare Network (FHCN) Kinder Care Dental Program provided screening and varnish application to children at Head Starts, WIC sites, schools, and other agencies working with children zero through five. A referral system for those needing further care was implemented. Oral exams were given to pregnant women at WIC sites, Head Starts, and FHCN clinics. Children were screened at FHCN clinics during well-child visits to integrate medical and oral health services. Children and parents were educated on good oral health as part of the program.

Service Description

Oral exams and varnish treatments, if applicable, at preschool sites or schools were provided by a registered dental hygienist. Parents received exam results and recommendations for further treatment when necessary. FHCN staff and school nurses provided assistance in making dental appointments.


The primary goal of this program was to find and treat the youngest children before poor oral health became established. When further treatment was necessary FHCN completed referrals for follow up appointments. Good oral hygiene was stressed in a classroom setting and with handouts to take home.

Interpretations

7,742 children received oral health screenings.

4,971 children received a varnish application.

2,939 children had signs of visible decay (38 percent).

776 children were referred to a dentist based on findings from the oral screenings.

22,240 children received oral health exams during their routine well child doctor visits.

17

Family Services of Tulare County Early Childhood Mental Health Program

Agency: Family Services of Tulare County


Program Summary: Family Services provided therapeutic interventions with children, psycho-educational interventions with parents, and educational activities to increase awareness of developmental stages.




X


$660,000 $202,537 31%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$171,664 $4,947 $11,418 $700.56 7.71% Contract Compliance/Administrative: Program staff was experiencing difficulty in administering one of the posttest assessments prior to client departure. Staff worked with First 5 to identify a resolution. All services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The revised plan to administer posttests appears to be working as the first data submission for the 13/14 year contained more than what was received in the whole of 12/13.

18

Program Description

The Family Services Early Childhood Mental Health Program (ECMH) provided bilingual interventions for young children and their parents in need of mental health services utilizing family resource centers (FRCs) and other community sites. Therapists also gave presentations and trainings to staff and members of the community.

Service Description

The program provided early mental health services in the communities of Cutler-Orosi, Goshen, Lindsay, Pixley, and Woodlake. Program staff collaborated with family resource centers and Family HealthCare Network in the communities served. Training and professional development was facilitated for staff, project partners, and the community to better recognize when there is a need for therapeutic services.


This program aimed to increase the percentage of children in rural communities with access to early screening, identification, and intervention services for developmental delay and mental/behavioral health issues.

Interpretations

288 children and parents were screened and identified for services. 4,965 hours of therapeutic services were provided in five communities.

The Parent-Infant Relationship Global Assessment Scale (PIR-GAS) was used to assess children aged birth to three. The goal of diagnosis is to obtain as complete an understanding of the infant as possible, in the context of his/her family. Of the 30 PIR-GAS pretests received, 8 had a posttest score. All 8 (100 Percent) of these children showed some improvement between the pre- and posttest scores.

The Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) tool was used to assess the general functioning of children four to five years-of-age. Of the 50 GAF pretests received, 21 had a posttest score. All 21 (100 percent) of these children showed some improvement between the pre- and posttest score.

An emotional and social functioning rating scale, AXIS-V, was administered to reflect the child’s status with important caregivers, in relation to expectable patterns of development. Of the seven children assessed, none of them indicated a statistically significant improvement between the time of the pre and posttests.

19

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Hospitalist Program

Agency: Kaweah Delta Health Care District


Program Summary: Funds assisted the hospital with pediatric hospitalist coverage to provide around-the-clock physician services for hospitalized children and when needed for those presenting in the Emergency Department.




X


$478,853 $478,853 100%

Cost Benefit for 2012/2013 Personnel



Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

None None $478,853 $272.07

None

Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program continues to provide a high level of medical care within the community.

20

Program Description

Kaweah Delta’s Pediatric Hospitalist Program provided around-the-clock physician resources at the hospital for a variety of inpatient and outpatient needs for children birth through age five. The hospitalists cared for unassigned newborns and county patients. They also consulted with Emergency Department doctors when needed.

Service Description

Six pediatric hospitalists covered a 24-hour span with two doctors available during the day. They took part in high-risk deliveries and were assigned sick newborns, premature births, drug-exposed infants, and more critical cases. Among the pediatricians in the hospitalist program are two neonatologists, a sub-specialist who cares for the sickest babies, and a pediatric cardiologist. This coverage allowed children and their families to remain in the area instead of seeking needed care outside of Tulare County.


Pediatric hospitalists provided access to a higher level of medical care within the community. The specialists upgraded care for children in need of such treatment, thus keeping children close to their families and home while helping alleviate anxiety (parent and child) and excess cost.

Interpretations

1,760 children younger than six (unduplicated) were treated by a hospitalist.

10,865 inpatient encounters were provided to children ages zero through five admitted to the hospital. An encounter is defined as a patient/doctor contact (duplicated).

300 Emergency Department consultations were provided by the hospitalists.

21

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Specialty Care Program

Agency: Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation

Contract Period: July 1, 2009 – December 31, 2012 Total Program Funding: Budget: $3,000,000 12/13 Expended: $379,847

Program Summary: Increased access to pediatric specialty care within the county was provided to enhance the health of Tulare County’s young children.




X

Finances Total Award FY 12/13 Expended % of Budget Expended $3,000,000 $379,847 13%

Cost Benefit

Personnel Costs

Administrative Expense

Program Expense

Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$164,382 $2,251 $213,214 $2,583.99 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Total expenditures were 91.47 % of the $3,000,000 contract. Current Status/Update: The program completed the contract extension in December 2012. Pediatric Gastroenterology services continue to be provided at the Kaweah Exeter Clinic.

22

Program Description

The Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Specialty Care Project was initially a three-year grant totaling $3 million to recruit physicians and establish practices for the in-demand pediatric specialties of gastroenterology and behavioral developmental pediatrics. The program was extended for an additional year with no increase in the grant amount. The report period covers the final six months of the program.

Service Description

Pediatric Gastroenterologist Roberto Gugig began seeing patients at the Kaweah Delta Exeter Clinic mid-way through 2009-2010. Patients were referred by primary care physicians and pediatricians. Additionally, the endoscopy suite at Kaweah Delta Medical Center in Visalia was equipped to accommodate procedures for children. Transportation services were provided for families to enable them to come to appointments. Additionally, a Pediatric Registered Dietician worked with the physician to assist children and parents. In 2010-2011, the program added a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician as well as Occupational and Speech Therapy services.


The Pediatric Specialty Care Project enhanced the health of Tulare County’s young children by increasing access to pediatric specialty care within the county regardless of ability to pay. Program evaluation looked at the number of patients ages zero through five and the number of total patient visits for this group. Transportation services were also tracked.

Interpretations

108 children ages zero through five were seen by the Pediatric Gastroenterologist.

There were 403 patient visits conducted by the Pediatric Gastroenterologist.

39 children were seen by the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician.

There were 93 patient visits conducted by the Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician.

The Pediatric Dietician provided 145 consultations for children ages zero through five.

37 patient visits were provided by Occupational Therapists.

138 patient visits were provided by Speech Therapists.

22 families received transportation services.

23

Sierra View Local Healthcare District Breastfeeding Initiative

Agency: Sierra View Local Healthcare District


Program Summary: The hospital began the process of becoming a “Baby Friendly” hospital by improving the role of maternity services to enable mothers to breastfeed.




X


$75,000 $68,877 92%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$31,720 $0 $37,157 N/A N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The hospital continues to work toward the “Baby Friendly” designation and is growing the breastfeeding program.

24

Program Description

The Sierra View Breastfeeding Initiative was a comprehensive effort to improve services to enable mothers to breastfeed babies for the best start in life. The program funded by First 5 helped establish the foundation for the hospital to eventually receive accreditation as a “Baby Friendly” hospital.

Service Description

The hospital formed a breastfeeding task force and educated members regarding lactation services and supports. Presentations were provided at community events to heighten awareness and emphasize the importance of breastfeeding. In-services were provided to physician office staff members. The contents of the maternity services gift pack were reviewed to eliminate baby formula and include information on the benefits of breastfeeding.


The goal of the program was to increase the percentage of mothers who breastfeed their newborns.

Interpretations

The hospital’s breastfeeding policy was drafted and approved.

There were 379 hours of nurse training on the benefits of breastfeeding and how to support new moms so they successfully breastfeed.

1,683 children were born at the hospital in 2012-2013. Every delivering mother received information regarding the benefits of breastfeeding.

The hospital averaged 47 percent of new mothers exclusively breastfeeding. This serves as the program’s baseline.

25

Tulare Community Health Clinic Dental Screening, Varnish, and Education Program

Agency: Tulare Community Health Clinic


Program Summary: Oral health screenings for preschool and kindergarten students were conducted at 16 school sites. Those with visible decay were referred for treatment.




X


$81,725 $24,613 30%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$6,725 $200 $14,478 $15.04 15% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program continues to promote the importance of good oral health to preschool and kindergarten children in their service area.

26

Program Description

The Tulare Community Health Clinic (TCHC) Dental Screening, Varnish, and Education Program provided oral health assessments and fluoride varnish to preschool and kindergarten students at 16 school sites. All students that were assessed received a toothbrush and a dental education coloring book. Parents of students requiring further treatment were notified. Referrals were made and bus tokens were provided to those with transportation needs.

Service Description

TCHC provided oral health screenings for preschool and kindergarten children in their service area. A dentist and dental assistant identified children requiring further treatment and referrals were made to TCHC Dental Clinic due to the proximity to the sites served and the policy of treating regardless of ability to pay. If a child had a different dental home, information was given to the parent, and school staff followed up.


The pain and discomfort caused by poor dental hygiene is known to cause lack of focus and general disruption by children in the classroom. TCHC worked to provide children with the chance to achieve success by assessing and treating their oral health needs and educating the whole family on good oral health practices. It was stressed these routines were to be followed at home as well as during the school day.

Interpretations

1,636 children received an oral health screening. 1,597 children were treated with a fluoride application.

737 children had visible signs of decay (45 percent).

732 children were referred to a dentist based on findings from the oral screening.

27

Tulare District Healthcare System Breastfeeding Program

Agency: Tulare District Healthcare System


Program Summary: First 5 funding supported the hospital’s breastfeeding program to increase breastfeeding both in the hospital and with mothers and babies at home.




X

Finances Total Award FY 12 /13 Expended % of Budget Expended

$266,147 $228,198 86%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$217,912 $0 $10,286 $185.22 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program continues to promote the importance of breastfeeding to all delivering mothers.

28

Program Description

The Tulare District Healthcare System’s Breastfeeding Program educated mothers on breastfeeding at the prenatal stage, after children were born, and during home visits after mothers and babies left the hospital. The staff received lactation training to better assist in these efforts.

Service Description

Lactation education was offered to all new mothers while inpatients at the hospital. Within a week of going home, nurse home visitation was offered with approximately 440 mothers accepting the service. The visit included a full assessment of mother and newborn along with breastfeeding and parenting education. An in-house education program on the subject of breastfeeding, Breastfeeding and Beyond, was provided for appropriate staff.


The goal of this program was to ensure new mothers had the information and support they needed to successfully breastfeed.

Interpretations

1,232 children were born at the hospital in 2012-2013. Every delivering mother received information regarding the benefits of breastfeeding.

62 percent of new mothers at the hospital exclusively breastfed during their hospital stay. 87 percent provided some breastfeeding during their hospital stay.

438 new mothers received a home visit within the first week of discharge from the hospital. 41 percent were still exclusively breastfeeding and 36.5 percent were doing some breastfeeding.

105 expectant mothers received breastfeeding education during classes and birthing center tours prior to delivery.

29

Parent Education/Strong Families

Parent education is an important strategy to ensure families and young children are thriving in loving and supportive homes that are free from violence. Promoting strong families is encompassed in most of the programs funded by First 5. However, the programs listed here focus their efforts on this goal. When young children live in safe, supportive environments they are able to enter school healthy and ready to learn. This Result Area accounted for 22 percent of program expenditures for the 2012-2013 year.

31

County of Tulare Sheriff’s Department Gang Awareness Parenting Project

Agency: County of Tulare Sheriff’s Department


Program Summary: The project educated incarcerated parents and their significant others involved in gangs or living in a gang environment to the consequences of exposure to violence to the health and development of their children.




X

Finances Total Award FY 12/13Expended % Expended

$489,917 $157,275 32%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$50,947 $579 $105,749 $930.62 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

32

Program Description

The County of Tulare Sheriff’s Department’s Gang Awareness Parenting Project addressed issues associated with gangs or violence and their overall impact on children ages zero through five in Northern Tulare County. Adults and Children Together (ACT), an evidence-based curriculum, was used to work with inmates and their families (out-mates) through a weekly home visitation model. The project provided an eight-week parenting class to identified inmates who had children ages zero through five, who were at risk to exposure to violence, and who resided in Northern Tulare County.

Service Description

Home visits for the out-mate and jail visits for the inmate occurred initially on a weekly basis and were adjusted as indicated by need over a six-month period. Each visit had a clear structure, set activities, and was thoroughly documented. The ACT curriculum was designed to help families from all backgrounds raise children without violence by providing basic information about child development; risk factors for violence and its consequences; protective factors; and skills for effective parenting. Goals and objectives were established and aligned with each inmate’s release plan.


With the high rate of gang violence in Tulare County, this project’s goal was to address the impacts of violence on the very young through training and an evidence-based curriculum. The program measured success toward this goal by utilizing a parenting stress index pre- and posttest as well as the pre- and posttest from the parenting curriculum.

Interpretations

169 clients were enrolled into the program. 109 inmates and 60 out-mates.

79 clients completed the ACT curriculum. 100 percent showed an increase in understanding positive parenting as measured by pre- and posttests.

There was overall improvement in how favorably the parents perceived their parenting experience after participating in the 8-week class.

The largest change in parental attitude about effective parenting and parental roles was in the ways parents controlled their children’s television viewing. Over 65 percent of parents had a better understanding of the reality behind television programs.

63 percent of inmates one year out from the program had not been re-arrested. This is a significant improvement from the typical Tulare County rate of 32 percent who do not return to custody.

33

Family Services of Tulare County Addressing Child Trauma (ACT)

Agency: Family Services of Tulare County


Program Summary: Co-parent education and supervised visitation were provided to raise the awareness of divorcing parents about the impact of their behavior on their children, and to increase parents’ capacity to provide a safe and secure environment.




X


$275,083 $87,158 32%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate


34

Program Description

Addressing Childhood Trauma (ACT) was a prevention, intervention, and treatment program for children and families with a history of violence or abuse or who were experiencing high-conflict separation and divorce. Within the program, First 5 Tulare County funding was targeted to specific prevention and intervention services for children ages zero through five and their parents to promote effective, appropriate parenting skills, increase parents’ ability to maintain homes free from violence, and reduce emotional trauma to children.

Service Description

The ACT Program consisted of three components. In Co-Parenting Education classes, a therapist facilitated groups of separating/divorcing parents focused on increased cooperation and communication, increased understanding of the adverse impacts of divorces on children, and reducing children’s exposure to conflict between parents. Facilitated Supervised Visitation included a monitor present to participate in the visits between children and non-custodial parents to help parents increase skills and develop stronger family relationships. In court-ordered Supervised Visitation services the monitor was present to ensure no risk or harm was brought upon the child.


The goals of the ACT Program were for co-parents to increase positive parenting behaviors particularly the practical skills they needed to manage anger, increase impulse control, resolve conflict, and talk to each other without arguing.

Interpretations

88 parents participated in the Co-Parenting Education component of the program. 63 percent of the parents gave a higher rating of their relationship with their child’s other parent on the posttest than on the pretest. The program met its goal for parents who went through the Co-Parenting as the assessment results demonstrated a significant increase in knowledge and parental behaviors such as in building relationships and promoting their children’s learning.

65 parents participated in the Supervised and/or Facilitated Supervised Visitation component. Overall, families expressed a great deal of satisfaction with the visitation program services; 58 percent rated it as excellent or very good, and another 25 percent thought it was good. Only 17 percent reported it as fair or poor. 10 percent of the non-custodial parents going through a divorce participated in the program voluntarily, 87 percent attended as a requirement by Family Court, 3 percent were related to law enforcement issues (e.g., a condition of parole).

35

School Readiness Programs

School readiness programs funded by First 5 Tulare County provide an array of services to families in their communities. All provide preschool services either in a traditional classroom setting or through home visitation. Children receive instruction with an evidence based curriculum and are assessed regularly to identify specific needs and/or improvements.

The overarching goal of the school readiness programs is to ensure children enter kindergarten with the skills in place to allow a successful path for learning. Expenditures for the 2012-2013 year for this Result Area were 23 percent

37

Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District School Readiness Program

Agency: Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified School District

Contract Period: July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2015 Total Program Funding: Budget: $270,932 12/13 Expended: $83,694

Program Summary: Home based child interactive activities were provided to preschool children not able to attend a center based program. A parent education component was also provided.




X


$270,932 $83,694 31%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$75,021 $694 $4,146 $244.71 5% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

38

Program Description

The Cutler-Orosi School Readiness Program provided home based child interactive activities that included a parent education component. Families are actively engaged in early childhood development with their children in a school-year program. Additionally, the program provided individual intervention and in-class assistance for identified special needs children.

Service Description

Parents and children benefited from regular home visits that included early childhood development activities and parent education. The Health Aide provided health, dental, and vision screenings to preschool children and made referrals as appropriate, encouraging families to connect with a medical and dental home. The Outreach Aide provided transition activities to assist with kindergarten enrollment. The Child Development Aide provided classroom support for at risk preschool students being assessed for special needs. Center based preschool children were assessed for academic achievement utilizing the Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP).


Overall, the program sought to increase parents’ understanding of the importance of early literacy activities with their children. Additionally, they aimed to ensure children are healthy and ready to enter kindergarten, and identified children with special needs would show improvement in developmental milestones.

Interpretations

51 children and their parents participated in home based childhood development activities. Based on DRDP results for the preschool aged children there was a 38 percent gain in language/literacy; 38 percent gain in English language; 68 percent gain in physical development; and 72 percent gain in self/social development.

The majority of parents who participated in the project increased their understanding of the importance of early literacy activities with their children and engaged in activities that promoted school readiness.

285 children received oral health screenings; 291 children received a health screening; 232 children received a vision screening.

9 children identified with special needs received in-class support.

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Save the Children Federation, Inc. Early Steps to School Success

Agency: Save the Children Federation, Inc.

Contract Period: September 1, 2012 – June 30, 2015 Total Program Funding: Budget: $825,000 12/13 Expended: $243,943

Program Summary: Program activities included early childhood education services, education services for parents, home-school connections, and ongoing staff training for community childhood educators.




X


$825,000 $243,943 30%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$69,021 $0 $154,821 $687.16 10% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

40

Program Description

Save the Children’s Early Steps to School Success (ESSS) program provided prenatal educational services, educational services to children, early language development, and social and emotional development activities. The ESSS program provided services in Alpaugh, Farmersville, Pleasant View School in Poplar, Sunnyside School in Strathmore, Terra Bella, and Tipton.

Service providers were bicultural/bilingual, and services were provided during home visits for infants along with school-based activities for toddlers and preschoolers.

Service Description

Activities included child playgroups and storybook hours for children ages two through five; regular home visits two times per month; a book bag exchange program; child portfolios developed collaboratively with families to build knowledge and skill on the part of parents in observing, documenting, assessing, and promoting their children’s early learning and literacy development; and regularly scheduled parent/child support and education groups. Pregnant women received monthly home visits. The visits focused on prenatal health and care, understanding a baby’s developmental progress, helping new parents to provide an appropriate environment for their infants, and support for smoking cessation and substance abuse issues as needed.


One goal of the ESSS program was for participating children to enter school with the skills necessary for school success. Another goal of the ESSS program was for parents to have the skills and knowledge to support their children’s health and education.

Interpretations

355 children and their parents were enrolled into the program in 2012-2013.

1,925 home visits were conducted.

The Ages and Stages Questionnaire was administered 375 times to 153 children. 19 children exhibited developmental concerns and were referred for early intervention services.

Parents reported reading to their children a total of 41,958 times throughout the program year.

80 percent of 3-year-olds in the program scored at or above the normal range for vocabulary acquisition.

On average, literacy improvement among program participants was equivalent to an additional 3.4 months of schooling.

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Traver Joint Elementary School District Traver School Readiness

Agency: Traver Joint Elementary School District


Program Summary: A preschool program was provided for three and four year-olds within the school district.




X


$150,000 $47,197 31%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$42,982 $3,387 $828 $858.12 N/A Contract Compliance/Administrative: Due to a staff leave of absence there were no post assessments administered for the parenting component. However, the number of parents attending the parenting classes was met. Current Status/Update: Staff has returned to work and was made aware of the posttest issue. First 5 will work with the provider to ensure all parents receive the posttest to determine the evaluation outcome for this component of the program.

42

Program Description

Traver Joint Union Elementary School District provided a preschool program for three and four year-olds within the district. The classroom instruction took place on the Traver Elementary School campus and ran for 35 weeks, beginning in September and concluding early June. The program implemented the National Education Goals Panel of school readiness and ensured that all goals and standards were addressed in their curriculum planning.

Service Description

Preschool classes were provided three times a week. The four year-old class began at 8:00 a.m. and concluded at 11:30 a.m. The three year-old class met from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Parenting classes were also offered once each semester for an eight week series. The program required all parents to participate in the Early Family Literacy Reading Program and read to their child 10 minutes per day, five days a week.


The primary goal of the program was to ensure the preschool students were ready for kindergarten. The program utilized the Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP) to measure improvement in seven developmental areas. The goal for the parenting classes was to equip parents with parenting skills and the knowledge of how to support learning in their homes.

Interpretations

40 three and four-year-old children were served in the preschool classroom.

The DRDP results indicated that the children improved significantly in all the domains. Average growth was 24 percent, with self/social development the lowest at 17 percent improvement and English language development the highest at 35 percent improvement.

15 parents completed the parenting component.

Parents reported reading to their children a total of 346 hours for the program year.

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Tulare City School District Comprehensive School Readiness Program

Agency: Tulare City School District


Program Summary: Four components were provided: two preschool classes for children three to five-years-of-age with special needs; four after-school preschool classes were offered for typically developing children; one traditional hours classroom for typically developing children; and monthly staff development training and weekly coaching from an Occupation Therapist.




X


$803,722 $261,817 33%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$215,251 $0 $37,152 $1,616.15 3.73% Contract Compliance/Administrative: All reports were submitted on time and services were provided per the contract. Current Status/Update: The program is successfully on track for the 13/14 year.

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Program Description

The Tulare City School District Comprehensive School Readiness Program had four components: special services preschool classes for young children with special needs, one classroom for typically developing children, four “after-school” preschools from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. two days per week for 20 students, and staff development training by an Occupational Therapist on the implementation of Handwriting Without Tears curriculum.

Service Description

Students screened and identified with special needs were enrolled in special services preschool classes and placed on Response to Intervention or Individual Education Plans. Students received an array of services including access to an occupational therapist, psychologist, social worker, and speech therapist.

The “after-school” preschool served underserved students to better prepare them for a rigorous kindergarten program the following school year. Students at Maple Preschool were provided a positive, structured preschool experience. Teachers received monthly staff training and weekly coaching by the Occupation Therapist.


The program was to ensure special needs students received early screening, identification, and intervention for their particular need in order to be better prepared to enter kindergarten. 90 percent of the students were to meet 100 percent of their Individual Education Plan/Individual Learning Plan goals as measured by the Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP).

Interpretations

62 students attended the special services preschools. Utilizing the DRDP for special needs children, five of the seven domains indicated a poorer evaluation at the posttest (interaction with adults, classification/matching, letter/word knowledge, dressing, and understanding healthy lifestyles) and two of the domains indicated better evaluations at the posttest (object/pretend play and toileting/hygiene). The average attendance of the special services preschool was 92 percent.

23 students attended the typically developing preschool at Maple School; 77 students attended “after school” preschool programs. All were assessed with the DRDP. Children showed on average a significant percentage increase of approximately 80 percent overall between the pre and posttest. The program met their goal of 90 percent of students meeting 100 percent of their Individual Learning Plan goals for this population.

Preschool teachers received 254.5 hours of staff development/coaching by the Occupational Therapist.

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Tulare County Office of Education School Readiness Improvement Project

Agency: Tulare County Office of Education


Program Summary: Training was provided to selected early care and education providers to strengthen the quality of services.




X


$689,662 $222,198 32%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate


46

Program Description

The Tulare County Office of Education developed the School Readiness Improvement Project to strengthen the quality of early care and education by providing training and coaching to licensed family and center based providers. A parent education component was also included.

Service Description

Two cohorts of sixteen providers were selected to receive site specific training and coaching on topics such as: curriculum support, classroom management, family/community resources, environmental support, parent partnership support, technical support, inclusion support, special needs referrals, and strategies for linking parents to their local school districts. Participants also learned to administer various assessment tools to help develop strong learning plans for each child. Parents of children in the participating programs received a minimum of 12 trainings on a variety of topics related to parenting healthy, successful young children.


Program children’s activities aimed to increase academic gains because they were in safe and nurturing environments that promoted communication and reasoning, were sensitive to their needs, respectful, encouraging, and characterized by an enthusiasm for learning. A second goal was that 80 percent of teachers would increase their baseline score on the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS).

Interpretations

486 teachers and supervisors attended trainings for the year.

379 teachers (78 percent) improved their scores in all three domains measured by the evaluation tool (CLASS).

160 parents attended monthly trainings.

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Visalia Unified School District Ivanhoe First 5 Program

Agency: Visalia Unified School District


Program Summary: Preschool classes for three and four year-olds were provided as well as home visits to mothers and infants in the community.




X


$323,834 $82,464 25%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$68,478 N/A $11,190 $323.38 3.51% Contract Compliance/Administrative: The program experienced staff turnover which impacted their deliverables for the second half of the year. Current Status/Update: The program is fully staffed and all services are being provided per the contract.

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Program Description

Visalia Unified School District Ivanhoe Elementary School continued the community developed school readiness program previously funded in collaboration with First 5 California. The program served all families in the Ivanhoe area that had a new baby born; families with children zero up to age three; and preschoolers aged three and four. Parents were encouraged to participate in their children’s learning as well.

Service Description

Home visits were provided to all families with a newborn child. On-going visits continued up to each child’s third birthday at which time they were enrolled in preschool at the school site. Home visits included: early literacy, activities to enrich cognitive development, a developmental assessment, and assistance in addressing issues/removing obstacles specific to school readiness. Parents were encouraged to attend monthly parent workshops. Preschool classes were provided three days per week for three and four-year-olds. Children in the preschool class were assessed utilizing the Desired Results Developmental Profile (DRDP).


The overarching goal of the program was to prepare children for kindergarten and to educate parents on the important role they play as their child’s first teacher.

Interpretations

16 new birth families were visited in 2012-2013.

21 children from zero to age three received home visits.

176 parents attended monthly parenting workshops.

42 children ages three and four attended preschool classes three times per week. 31 children received vision and hearing screenings from the school nurse.

The DRDP assessment indicated that the children improved significantly in all areas. With the exception of English language development, the other domains showed a great deal of statistically significant improvement. The average gain among six of the domains was approximately 72 percent between pre- and posttest. The last domain, English Language Development, showed 9.9 percent gain.

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First 5 Administered Programs

These programs are administered internally by First 5 staff. The Kit for New Parents is a partnership with First 5 California. First 5 California provides each county with a specific number of kits relative to their county’s birth rate. First 5 Tulare County received approximately 7,000 kits to distribute to parents of young children. Additionally, First 5 Tulare County adds items to enhance the kits such as an oral health kit, a listing of local resources, and poison control information.

The Special Project Grants program was established to allow flexibility in funding one-time, smaller grants that do not rise to the level of the larger competitive projects.

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First 5 Tulare County Kits for New Parents

Agency: First 5 Tulare County


Program Summary: First 5 California produced the Kit for New Parents containing information, advice, and useful tips first-time parents need to best prepare for the joys and challenges that lie ahead. First 5 Tulare County customized kits by adding an oral health kit and local resource sheet to each one.




X


$48,400 $47,261 98%




Cost Per Client

Indirect Cost Rate

$0 $0 $47,261 N/A None Contract Compliance/Administrative: N/A Current Status/Update: First 5 Tulare County continues to reach out to community partners to ensure access to the kits is readily available.

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Program Description

First 5 Tulare County distributed Kits for New Parents throughout Tulare County through partners including hospitals, pediatricians, OBGYNs, the Tulare County Office of Education, the County of Tulare Health and Human Services Agency, and First 5 Tulare County-funded providers.

Service Description

Each Kit for New Parents contained DVDs covering such topics as bonding, communication, health, nutrition, childcare, safety inside and outside the home, discipline, children’s health development, and how to communicate with caregivers. In addition to the DVDs, the Kit for New Parents also contained a book to encourage parents to read to their children, the Parents’ Guide which linked parents to resources and services in their community, the What to Do When Your Child Gets Sick book, an oral health kit, and brochures and pamphlets with local resources.


The overall goal of Kits for New Parents was to provide parents with tools and resources in order to provide their children with safe environments, keep them healthy, and promote school readiness.

Interpretations

In 2012-2013, First 5 partners distributed 6,087 Kits to parents throughout Tulare County. Of those, 4,320 (71 percent) were in English and 1,757 (29 percent) were in Spanish. Spanish kits dropped from 37 percent of the total in the prior year.

Kits were distributed to the following partners:

o 37 percent to hospitals

o 21 percent to clinics

o 16 percent to county departments

o 12 percent to community-based organizations

o 8 percent to school districts/schools

o 6 percent to private physicians

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First 5 Tulare County Special Project Grants

Program Description

The First 5 Tulare County Special Project Grant Program funded activities, purchases, and events consistent with the Commission’s strategic plan and which did not fall under other funding programs.

2012-2013 Special Project Grants

Blind Babies Foundation Lots of Dots on the Move $8,400

Family Services of Tulare County Children’s Counseling Center Makeover

$4,000

TCOE Council on Child and Youth Development

Inclusion Collaborative Training

$2,950

Tulare Community Health Clinic Toddler-Friendly Project $5,601

Tulare Community Health Clinic Dr. Tule & Me Coloring Book $8,300

Tulare Community Health Clinic Spot Check Devices $2,400

County of Tulare Health and Human Services Agency

Fluoride Varnish Project $11,695

Visalia Host Lion’s Foundation Lion’s Vision Screening $1,000

Sierra View Local Healthcare District Oximeter for Critical Congenital Heart Disease

$4,520

Jeff Barnes Brain Injury Foundation Maple Helmet Fitting Project 2013

$600

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Program

$3,610

CASA of Tulare County 0-5 Car Seat Project $3,711

Central California Family Crisis Center Car Seat Project $1,250

The Blanket Ladies 2012 Project $2,500

TCOE Council on Child and Youth Development

Fifth Annual Legislative Breakfast

$1,000

El Dorado Media Daddy’s Tool Bag $7,520

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Visalia Unified School District Bilingual Books for Parent University

$9,665

River Kids Preschool Project $14,633

Down Syndrome Association of Central California

5 & Under Social $750

Visalia Parks and Recreation Foundation Freedom Celebration $2,000

Sunnyside Union School District Toddler Technology Project $11,940

Liberty Elementary School District Liberty Preschool $11,809

Exeter Unified School District School Readiness Project Summer 2013

$6,622

TOTAL $126,476

55

Interpretations

Special Project Grants have variable terms depending upon the unique goals of each grant.

Lots of Dots on the Move: A summer program for 20 preschoolers with visual impairments and their families that aimed to provide basic awareness of pre-Braille concepts, Braille numbers, beginning orientation and mobility skills.

Children’s Counseling Center Makeover: Funds helped renovate the children’s counseling center in Visalia to improve services for young children and their families. Project included painting the interior, purchasing age-appropriate toys, furniture, and play therapy items. Audio-visual equipment was also acquired.

Inclusion Collaborative Training: Funds supported a half-day training and strategic planning session for service providers that work with special needs children to strengthen the special education system for children younger than six.

Toddler-Friendly Project: Five Tulare Community Health Clinic sites added wall-mounted activity boards, toddler-size furniture, and other items to enhance waiting areas with the goal of improving the patient experience for young children.

Dr. Tule & Me Coloring Book: Tulare Community Health Clinic created and printed 10,000 copies of a 16-page bilingual coloring book for toddlers and their parents focusing on healthy behaviors to improve overall health (including oral health) of children between the ages of 3 and 6.

Spot Check Devices: This equipment was used to check patient vital signs at community clinics, and First 5 funds were calculated based upon the percentage of utilization by patients who were either pregnant women or children younger than 6.

Fluoride Varnish Project: Funds were used to launch a fluoride varnish application project for young children served by county clinics in Visalia, Tulare, and Farmersville. Varnish was applied during well-child visits.

Lion’s Vision Screening: Grant funds covered a portion of the cost of a portable vision screening device that Lion’s Club volunteers used at local events for families with young children. The device indicates when a child needs an eye exam by a professional, and the Lion’s volunteers made referrals when needed.

Oximeter for Critical Congenital Heart Disease: This device was used to screen newborns at Sierra View Local Healthcare District Hospital for early identification and treatment.

Maple Helmet Fitting Project 2013: Volunteers properly fitted bike helmets given to 80 Maple Preschool students in Tulare.

Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Program: Kaweah Delta partnered with the Tulare County Office of Education, utilizing grant funds from the County of Tulare Health and

56

Human Services Agency and First 5 to bring a program focusing on healthy eating and obesity prevention strategies to child development centers around the county.

CASA 0-5 Car Seat Program: CASA used grant funds to purchase 30 car seats to be used by staff, volunteer advocates, and children’s care givers to safely transport young foster children.

Central California Family Crisis Center Car Seat Project: Ten car seats were purchased by staff to safely transport young children receiving services from their programs.

Blanket Ladies 2012 Project Support: The Blanket Ladies used grant funds to purchase fabric, binding, and other supplies used by volunteers to make blankets, hats, bibs, etc. for young children. Items were given to Family Resource Centers, domestic violence shelters, CASA, and other programs to provide to their clients.

Fifth Annual Legislative Breakfast: First 5 Tulare County was a cosponsor of the event targeting policy-makers to educate them about the importance of early care and education programs.

Daddy’s Tool Bag: This grant enabled First 5 Tulare County to acquire 2,500 parent education DVD’s focusing on fathers’ roles in the lives of their newborns.

Bilingual Books for Parent University: VUSD purchased over 620 Spanish/English books for young children to be available for parents to check out from the district library.

River Kids Preschool Project: This grant enabled River Kids in Three Rivers to acquire equipment, furnishings, classroom supplies, and curriculums.

5 & Under Social: Grant funds enabled the Down Syndrome Association to organize and conduct an event in Visalia for young children with Down syndrome and their families.

Freedom Celebration: First 5 Tulare County was a cosponsor of the Fourth of July event in Visalia with an estimated 1,000 children age five and younger attending.

Toddler Technology Project: Grant funds enabled the purchase of iPads, LeapPads, and accessories to provide a technology rich program for preschoolers and kindergartners attending Sunnyside Union Elementary School.

Liberty Preschool: Grant funds were used to purchase classroom supplies, program materials, and furnishing for a new preschool.

School Readiness Project Summer 2013: Grant funds were used to provide training and materials to caregivers of incoming kindergarten students in Exeter Unified School District to prepare them for school success.

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PROVIDER PROGRAM

COSTPER

CLIENT

Tulare Community Health Clinic Kindergarten Oral Health Assessments $15.04

Family HealthCare Network Kinder Care Dental $16.23

Parenting Network Visalia Family Resource Center $178.63

Tulare District HealthCare System Breastfeeding Program $185.22

Woodlake Union Elementary SD Woodlake Family Resource Center $231.57

Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified SD School Readiness Program $244.71

Kaweah Delta Health Care District Pediatric Hospitalist Program $272.07

Lindsay Unified School District First Steps Family Resource Center $298.99

Visalia Unified School District Ivanhoe First 5 Program $323.38

Court Appointed Special Advocates 0-5 Program $334.98

Tulare County Office of Education School Readiness Improvement Project $343.95

Cutler-Orosi Joint Unified SD Family Resource Center $409.46

Family Services of Tulare County Addressing Child Trauma (ACT) $569.66

Save the Children Federation, Inc. Early Steps to School Success $687.16

Family Services of Tulare County Early Childhood Mental Health $700.56

Traver Joint Elementary SD Traver School Readiness $858.12

County of Tulare Sheriff's Department Gang Awareness Parenting Project $930.62

Tulare City School District Comprehensive School Readiness $1,616.15

Kaweah Delta Hospital Foundation Pediatric Specialty Care Project $2,583.99

Table 1: 2012-2013 Cost per Client by Program

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FIRST 5 TULARE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

2013

Christine A. Nelson, M.D., Chair

Cheryl Duerksen, Ph.D., Chair-Elect

Phil Cox Maureen Bianco Steve Beargeon

Jason Britt Connie Smith

FIRST 5 TULARE COUNTY STAFF

Sterling Bishop Erika Guardado

Aaron Cooper Janet Hogan

Rose Froyd Michele Morrow

Larry Gonzales Ruth Rater

local annual report 2012-2013 - first 5...

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