Extended Family Support Program | Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
2607 Woodlawn Avenue, Suite 3, Sterling, IL 61081
Main Phone
Toll-Free
Main Phone
Main Phone
Offers to assist a relative caregiver who wants to obtain guardianship through probate court of a relative's child living in the home of the caregiver. This includes
- Educating and helping the caregiver negotiate the probate court system.
- Assisting caregivers to obtain required documents.
- Arranging for legal counsel in counties where legal counsel is necessary.
EFSP caseworkers meet with the relative caregiver monthly until guardianship has been obtained or until other services have been provided. These services can include crisis intervention, applying for benefits, working with local schools for the child's enrollment, and referral to a range of needed services that the caregiver may have to help meet the basic needs of the family.
Promotes the safety and well-being of children, youth, and families by responding to reports of potential abuse and neglect and, when needed, providing family-centered care and connection to resources.