Contact Number: 607.778.2635 Fax: 607.778.3506
Unit Description:
Referrals should be made to the intake line, which is staffed from 8am to 4pm Monday – Friday, with the exception of major holidays. Messages left on the intake line will be returned within one business day. Central Intake is not an emergency service.
When contacting Central Intake the referral sources should have the following information:
- Names and dates of birth for all adults and children residing in the household;
- Address and phone contact information for the parent/guardian;
- A description of the presenting problem and risk of foster care placement;
- The name and contact information for any other services providers involved with the family.
Referrals to Central Intake are accepted when a child or children in the home are identified as being at immediate or imminent risk of placement in foster care. There are no financial eligibility requirements
Caseworkers from Central Intake assess the household and risk of placement. If eligible for Mandated Preventive Services, Caseworkers make referrals to programs provided by contract agencies as available. Mandated Preventive Services are provided to families with children under the age of 18 who reside in Broome County and are not currently working with staff from Child Protective Services, PINS Diversion or Family Services.
If not eligible, Caseworkers provide information regarding community-based providers who may be able to assist the family.
All services provided by BCDSS as a result of a Central Intake referral are on a voluntary basis and are offered only if the family is willing to participate in services.
