When must initial face-to-face contacts occur for children receiving In-Home services?

Initial face-to-face contacts for children receiving In-Home services must occur within 2 business days. The rationale behind this requirement is to ensure that the safety and well-being of the children are assessed and addressed promptly. By mandating a timely response, it allows service providers to establish rapport with families, reassess any risks, provide immediate support, and start building a plan for services and interventions as necessary.

This timeframe emphasizes the importance of acting quickly in child welfare situations, as early intervention can significantly impact a family's dynamics and the children's stability and safety. Timely face-to-face contacts are essential for gathering firsthand information and understanding the family's circumstances better, which is crucial in making informed decisions regarding the children's care and support.