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Community Dispute Resolution Program Celebrates One Year Anniversary

The Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDR) in Buffalo City Court has now been active for a year as it continues to serve the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The diversion program, launched in July 2019, provides an alternative to criminal proceedings to resolve issues between parties by facilitating conversations between a complainant and defendant with…
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An Important Notice About COVID-19

How Child & Family Services is Managing the Current Pandemic Please remember that you are not alone. In these difficult times, we want you to know that we are still here for you. Our Residential Program is open for children who need it. On-site Counseling clinics have re-opened, while Telehealth remains an option for those…
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2020 Celebration of Friends Award Recipients

Though unable to host an in-person event this year due to the pandemic, Child & Family Services is excited to announce the five recipients of this year’s Celebration of Friends. Child & Family Services Distinguished Employee Award: Kyle MaurerSusan T. Siwiec Distinguished Donor Award: Buffalo Sabres William B. Hoyt Advocacy Award: Karl ShallowhornStanley G. Falk…
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Telehealth Offers Versatility for Counseling Services

“Safe place” is a counseling exercise during which the client describes a calm, relaxing setting to give themselves peace of mind. For some Telehealth clients, the inspiration for their safe place can now be shared with counselors. “I have one client who, during a Telehealth session, was able to physically go to his safe place…
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Haven House Takes Precautions Against COVID

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic violence survivors have still been seeking safety at Haven House. Haven House staff members have taken action against the spread of COVID-19 in order to give the survivors' peace of mind. At the start of any shift, employees enter the building wearing a mask, immediately take their temperature, answer health…
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Linda McCartan Brings Stability as New COO

We asked Child & Family Services's new Chief Operating Officer Linda McCartan a few questions about her experience at C&FS and how she hopes to lead our agency in the future. How does it feel to be the new COO? It is truly an honor to serve the Agency in this position. I am excited…
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Discussing Feelings on Racial Injustice

Frustration. Fear. But, ultimately, hope. These were a few of the emotions expressed during the recent Racial Healing Circles offered to the Child & Family Services’ team. Held over Zoom, these sessions were an opportunity to have an honest, judgment-free discussion regarding the way staff members are feeling in response to current racial injustice issues.…
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Visitations Resume for Foster Care & Adoption

For a parent who hasn’t seen their child in person for months, there is no better feeling than the moment they are reunited. Visitations, face-to-face between parents and children in our Foster Care & Adoption Program, resumed this week. When a child is in foster care, they have scheduled visitation times with their birth parents.…
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Falk for Life – Stanley G. Falk School 2020 Graduation

It wasn’t the night any of the graduating seniors of the Stanley G. Falk School had expected, but it was a night that they will never forget. Due to concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19, the Falk School graduation was held on Monday, June 15 at the Transit Drive-In. This didn’t hamper the festivities, though,…
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A Foster Family Finds Balance in Quarantine

This article was written by Roberta Hinkle. Roberta and her husband, Kevin, have six children in their home - four foster children, all siblings, and two birth children. The Hinkles have been foster parents with C&FS for five years. Over two months after my four foster children and four birth children said goodbye to their…
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Reflecting on Mental Health Counseling During a Pandemic

Personal connection is the gift I am able to share with others during the current pandemic. Right now, our community isn’t able to connect the way we are used to. We miss chatting with neighbors, visiting with family, and the normalcy of everyday schedules. Even though we are not able to talk face-to-face, I am…
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Community Creative in Giving Comfort

Throughout the past weeks, we have seen an outpouring of support. Recently, our community has stepped up with meals and art kits which truly personify the meaning behind the phrase “The City of Good Neighbors.” Haven House received a special donation of food from Stock The Freezer, an organization started by Nick Pitillo and the…
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