The Alameda County Foster Care Program remains committed to providing essential services to foster care and extended foster care recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure the health and safety of everyone involved, we have implemented some adjustments to our service delivery methods, aligning with public health guidelines.
Our Child Welfare Workers are proactively taking steps to protect the community while continuing to support families and children. Prior to conducting in-person monthly visits with children in foster care, our workers will initiate a pre-screening telephone call. This call involves a few straightforward yes/no questions designed to help us understand the current health situation in your household and plan for the visit accordingly. These questions include inquiries about recent COVID-19 diagnoses, symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, and potential exposure to individuals with confirmed COVID-19 within the last 14 days.
If you answer “yes” to any of these screening questions, we encourage you to contact your healthcare provider for guidance regarding symptoms or exposure. Rest assured, your Child Welfare Worker will then collaborate with you to make alternative arrangements to fulfill the objectives of the scheduled visit, prioritizing the child’s health, safety, and overall wellbeing. This might involve virtual meetings or rescheduling the in-person visit depending on the circumstances and public health recommendations.
When in-person visits are deemed necessary, Alameda County Child Welfare Workers are fully equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and will consistently practice safe social distancing measures. We kindly request that clients and caregivers also participate in these safety measures by wearing face coverings and adhering to social distancing guidelines during in-person interactions.
Please note that to further minimize the spread of COVID-19, the public lobbies at our 675 Hegenberger Road, Oakland, and 24100 Amador Street, Hayward locations are temporarily closed. However, our lobby at 1111 Jackson Street, Oakland, remains open for specific services by appointment only. These services include some family visits and LiveScan fingerprinting. Face coverings are mandatory for entry into the building at this location. Furthermore, all Child and Family Team (CFT) meetings will be conducted via Conference Call until further notice.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we navigate these adjustments to continue providing vital support to the Alameda County foster care community during these times. For more detailed information and ongoing updates, please Find out more.
