We Want to Share Our Experiences with You

When families arrive at Haven House, they are often beginning the difficult work of starting over. For parents, it means finding safety and support. For children, it means adjusting to a new environment while carrying experiences no child should have to face.  That’s where Haven House’s children’s program becomes an essential part of the journey.  Led by Supervisor Letti Munn, support begins the moment a family arrives. While advocates…

Every Wednesday evening, something transformative happens inside our Residential Program.  These evenings are dedicated to Therapeutic Crisis Intervention for Families (TCI-F), a six-week, evidence-based program designed to strengthen families and support children with complex emotional and behavioral needs. Recently, the program started offering this nationally recognized model directly to the families it serves, thanks to Residential Treatment Transition Coordinators Tamara Rivera…

When Francesca Agugliaro, Case Manager for Child and Family Services Youth Trafficking Prevention Program, talks about Alex*, it is impossible not to hear the pride in her voice. “That’s my baby,” she said. “I’m so proud of Alex.” Alex was 15 years old when they were referred to the Youth Trafficking Prevention Program due to…

When Willow* and her three children first connected with the Child and Family Services Wraparound program, they had recently lost their home. With two children who require specialized support, the family was searching for more stability in their lives.  Care Coordinator Noah Vallas began working with the family seven months ago. His first priority was addressing their most…

Leaving Haven House’s shelter can be both hopeful and daunting for survivors of domestic violence. They have taken an important step toward safety, but the path to stable housing and independence can still feel overwhelming. That’s why Haven House recently launched a new Life Skills Group to help residents prepare for life beyond shelter.  The group focuses on practical tools that build independence. Participants…

When you walk into our Tri-Main Office, you’re greeted with a warm smile. Behind that smile is Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Community Mediation Center Office Manager, Angelina Castro.   Over the last 15 years, Angelina’s dedication to helping others has shaped many parts of our Agency. She began her journey in Human Resources, transitioned to the Stanley G. Falk School, and ultimately found her home in…

This February, we honor 100 years of Black History Month in the United States. It is a time to celebrate the achievements, contributions, strength and creativity of Black Americans, past and present. Their leadership and experiences continue to shape our communities and our country.  Black History Month began in 1926 as Negro History Week, founded by historian…

Many of our programs begin with understanding and meeting young people where they are. This includes our Youth Trafficking Prevention Program.   The program serves individuals up to age 21 who are at risk of, or have survived, trafficking. To expand prevention in ways that feel approachable, the team began hosting monthly workshops for young…

Before starting kindergarten at Stanley G. Falk School (Falk) in November 2023, Dean was terrified to go to school. His former schools lacked the structure and specialized resources Dean needed to succeed. For Dean and his family, school had become a source of fear and frustration rather than learning. That changed when an attorney from…

Reunification is always the goal in foster care, but reaching it takes time, trust and an extraordinary amount of work. This past December, one family experienced that milestone just in time for the holidays.  In May, two young siblings entered foster care due to concerns of domestic violence in the home. From the beginning, their mother was…

Last month, Child and Family Services proudly celebrated Tyrone Adams and his 20 years of dedication to the Agency. As a Child Care Therapy Aide, Tyrone has spent two decades making a meaningful impact on the lives of many children.  Before joining C+FS, Tyrone worked as a full-time teacher and supported older children with disabilities. This…

For many, the holiday season is filled with joy, celebration and time spent with loved ones, but for hundreds of families across Western New York, this time of year can also bring significant challenges.  Each year, Child and Family Services’ Adopt-a-Family program helps bridge that gap. Through the generosity of our community, families in C+FS…