Helping you connect families to economic and concrete resources and supports (ECRS) for long-term stability
The Connecting Families to Economic Supports (CFES) playbook is designed to support child welfare and youth justice team managers. We offer guidance and tools as suggestions, not requirements—each organization can define what works for its team.
Steps Covered in the Playbook
1. Screen for Economic and Concrete Needs
What Happens: Case Planners* work with families and young people to identify and prioritize their economic and concrete needs, including public benefits, housing, tax support, clothing, and other essential needs.
2. Refer to an Economic Resource Navigator
What Happens: For economic and concrete needs beyond their scope or expertise, Case Planners* identify and connect families with Navigators at their organizations or others who can offer parallel support.
3. Offer Benefits and Resources Support
What Happens: Navigators help families and young people identify, apply for, and access needed resources and support while also maintaining communication with the Case Planner* for holistic support.
*The term ‘Case Planners’ is used throughout this playbook to refer to case-responsible or case-carrying staff. Your organization might have different terms or role descriptions.