Family Care Center Facility
Self sufficient parents, strong families, successful children.
Originally the Children's Bureau, the Division of Family Services was formed in 1989. At that time, teen pregnancy was a growing national concern resulting in poverty and limited prospects for parents and children. In an effort to address teen pregnancy, the community and the city came together to initiate programs that would lay the groundwork for the Division as it exists. Today our mission has expanded beyond these first observations to include targeted programs meeting the needs of parents, families, and children in the Lexington community. 
“For these are our children, and we shall profit by, or pay for, what they become.”
James Baldwin
Today the Division of Family Services, based at the Family Care Center facility, offers:
1. Secondary education and career skills targeted at young mothers
Traditional high school education is provided in partnership with Fayette County Public Schools and the Cabinet for Families and Children. Transportation is included. A GED program is provided in partnership with Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC).
2. Child Care for our program participants and the community
Our program is one of only ten programs in Fayette County accredited by the National Association for the Education of Yound Children (NAEYC) and one of six to earn a 3-star rating in the Kentucky Kids Now STARS Program.
3. Early Start state funded preschool for low income families and children with disabilities
Early Start is offered onsite through a partnership between Fayette County Public Schools and Family Services.
4. Case management and support to young mothers receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Social workers actively support mothers participating in secondary and post secondary education, training, employment, or community service. The Division’s clients consistently meet or exceed minimum requirements set by the state and federal governments. In addition, a Mentor Program offers opportunities for mothers served. Services are provided through a contract with the Cabinet for Families and Children.
5. Home visitation and education services (HANDS model) for first time parents
Professionally degreed staff complete home visits 7 days weekly between 7 am and 8 pm. Services are offered through a contract with the Lexington Health Department.
6. Food services to all Division programs, as well as the Day Treatment Facility
Services are provided through the Family Care Center facility. This program daily provides food to the high school, childcare, and Day Treatment Center areas as well as employees.
7. A health clinic, under the ownership of the University of Kentucky, provides onsite medical and dental services for Fayette County residents
Physicians, residents, and nurse practitioners provide medical and dental services to low income individuals, families and children. The University provides business and medical support staff as well as language translation services. Other onsite partners include: Cardinal Hill, which provides speech and hearing services, and the Lexington Health Department, through the WIC Program, which provides nutrition services.
8. Parenting support program
A program for parents and their school aged children meets on Thursday evening from January 28 through April 15. A light meal will be provided from 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm. The program is free, but parents must call to RSVP at (859) 288-4082 by January 15, 2010. Topics include: child development, discipline, communication, managing stress and anger, academic problems, and fostering self-esteem. The meetings are facilitated by Marie Simpson, LCSW and Coach D. Robinson.