Vogel Alcove

Programs: Overview: the mission of vogel alcove is to provide the youngest children of homeless families, ages 6 weeks to 5 years, with the foundation for success. Our vision is that every child in our community has a home, a self-sufficient family, and a pathway to success in school. Numbers: children served daily/ages: up to 115 children / 6 weeks-5 years oldchildren served since 1987: more than 13,700children served last fiscal year: 219 homeless childrenemployees: 52volunteers: 1,651services: we offer early childhood development services and clinical case management for every family in our care. Specifically:early childhood education services:developmentally appropriate, research-based curriculum and assessment tools;low staff-to-child ratio in a child-centered environment;screens to check for developmental delays; intervention if delays are found;basics needs: home cooked meals, infant formula, diapers, shoes and clothing;on-site nutritionist to work with the staff and families to address proper health and nutrition. Case management:internal mental health program to work with children and families to address any mental health concerns and provide additional community-based care once they leave the alcove;bilingual counseling services in english and spanish;parent education program aimed at increasing parents' knowledge of child development and effective parenting techniques;access to free well-child check-ups, immunizations, treatment, referrals, vision and hearing screenings, and dental care provided in collaboration with parkland hospital's homeless outreach medical services (homes) van and community dental care;on-site nurse who checks the children for illnesses, educates and consults with parents;connections & support aftercare program to assist families with information, referrals and service linkages after they have exited the alcove's childcare services and established housing following a period of homelessness;referrals to community resources such as wic, schip and public housing;