This Child Abuse Prevention Month, we are reminded of the critical role our community plays in protecting and uplifting children in foster care. At EMPOWER, our commitment to finding safe, loving homes for children in the Metroplex East region is unwavering. This work is not easy, but through the dedication of our team and the support of our community partners, we continue to make a meaningful impact.

From our holiday toy drive with Community Partners of Dallas, which brought joy to so many children, to the events our staff attended to connect with the community and the tireless teamwork of our staff on complex cases, we see every day how collaboration strengthens our mission.

This month, we encourage our community to join us in raising awareness, advocating for vulnerable children, and supporting the staff and families who change lives. Together, we can create a future where every child feels safe, valued and loved.

At EMPOWER, we believe in uplifting organizations that make a real difference in the lives of children and families in foster care. This month, we’re shining a light on Foster Village DFW, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging the gap between foster families, caregivers and the community.

Foster Village DFW provides essential support to foster families by offering tangible resources like clothing, baby gear and school supplies, as well as ongoing connection and advocacy to help caregivers navigate the foster care journey. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to create a stronger, more supportive village for children experiencing foster care and the families who love them.

Through their Welcome Packs, mentorship programs and family engagement events, Foster Village DFW ensures that no foster family feels alone in the process. Their work is a testament to the power of community, and we are grateful for the impact they continue to make.

To learn more about their work or get involved, visit fostervillagedfw.org

The Texas Child-Centered Care (T3C) initiative continues progressing toward modernizing the foster care rate system to ensure children receive tailored services meeting their individual needs. As part of this effort, 67 providers have registered in the credentialing platform, with 38 applications currently under review. The DFPS T3C team is processing applications twice a month, working toward full implementation by August 2027.

Currently, eight providers hold Inactive Interim Credentials, meaning they have met the initial criteria and are completing the final steps to become fully active. Two providers—Pathways 3H Youth Ranch and Arrow Child & Family Ministries CPA—have received Active Interim Credentials and can now serve children under T3C. Additionally, other organizations are currently in the credentialing process, collaborating with DFPS staff.

On the assessment front, EMPOWER has begun completing CANS 3.0 assessments for all youth entering care, aged three and older. As additional assessors are hired, annual CANS assessments will be conducted by EMPOWER. Further updates on this process will be provided as implementation continues.

The EMPOWER team recently partnered with Dwell with Dignity to transform our family visitation rooms into warm, inviting spaces for the families we serve. Together, we assembled furniture and helped bring these refreshed rooms to life, ensuring they provide a comfortable and welcoming environment where families can connect and create lasting memories.

We are grateful for this collaboration and excited for the positive impact these spaces will have on the families we serve!