NEW ULM — Commissioners learned Tuesday that human services and public health are exploring the idea of a family resource center (FRC) in Brown County.

“It’s a long process. We’re applying for a Sauer Family Foundation grant to support a county-wide needs assessment to understand community sources and have a community voice as part of the process,” said Brown County Human Services Director Anne Broskoff.

The foundation serves at-risk children or those experiencing abuse or neglect, toxic stress/trauma, or have challenges developing reading, writing and math skills in schools or early childhood settings.

An FRC uses a multi-generational, strength-based, family-centered approach to provide low or no-cost support for participants with collaboration of local organizations, community and government.

“The goal is for families to get continued access to resources before they get into too much of a hole. The government covers assessment costs. It could lower our out of home placements and some of our other costs. It doesn’t have to be brick and mortar (in a building),” Broskoff said.

She said when families have access to helpful resources where they feel comfortable, they’re more likely to take advantage of them and less child protection services are needed.

“This is important to help people with mental skills. I’m excited to see a collaborative effort. I’m excited about this,” said human services lay board member Deeann Gieseke.

“On paper, it looks great. I hope it makes a real difference for people,” said Commissioner Scott Windschitl.

“This is a preventative program for young families. I’ve seen very good outcomes and cost savings with these programs,” said Commissioner Brian Braun.

“You’re right on. Prevention is well worth it,” Gieseke said.

According to the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC), for every dollar invested, FRCs have a $4.93 social return and $3.65 child welfare system savings, 63% reduction of child abuse cases, 50% out of home placement reduction and 26% lower rates of community-level child abuse investigations.

Last year, AMC, in collaboration with the Children’s Cabinet (a broad inter-agency partnership using a whole family approach to support healthy children and families), the Minnesota Department of Human Services and community partners passed legislation establishing $7.1 million for Community Resource Centers and authorized creation of an advisory council while continuing to develop, seek and leverage other funding opportunities.