Idaho State Health Agency, Nonprofits, and Churches Collaborate to Create Resource Network for Families

Laura Denner, administrator of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Division of Family and Community Partnerships, emphasized the need for a unified approach to supporting Idaho families. Recognizing the complexity of accessing assistance, Denner and her team launched the Idaho Community Resource Network. This initiative aims to ensure that families seeking help with rental assistance, affordable child care, or work-appropriate clothing have a clear path to resources.

Denner described the network as an “ecosystem of support,” bringing together nonprofit organizations, corporate partners, churches, and government entities. The goal is to reduce reliance on government services while fostering community-based solutions. Health and Welfare Resource Development Specialist Casie Jones leads the effort to connect families with available services, working to prevent unnecessary involvement with child welfare systems.

The resource network began in late 2024 with a focus on preventing children from entering foster care. However, its benefits extend to all Idahoans facing hardship. Jones noted the diversity of support available, from rural churches aiding youth and families to urban government programs. This breadth of resources can be overwhelming for individuals in crisis, underscoring the need for a centralized system.

To address this, the state’s 211 “CareLine” is now integrated with the United Way of Treasure Valley’s FindHelpIdaho.org database. This connection allows individuals to access the same list of services through a single phone call or online search. Additionally, the Idaho Care Portal is expanding access to church-based support, further streamlining the process for those in need.

The initiative emerged from recommendations by the Idaho Behavioral Health Council, which prioritizes foster care prevention. Denner highlighted that data shows over 97% of families working with navigators avoid child welfare involvement within six to twelve months. This reflects the effectiveness of upstream prevention and case management efforts.

Resources within the network serve both families and young people. Jones collaborated with Jennie Sue Weltner to ensure that support reaches those most vulnerable. The network exemplifies a collaborative approach rooted in the belief that community care is essential to addressing individual and family needs. As the network expands, it continues to reflect the principle of neighbor-love, as described in Galatians 6:10, which encourages doing good to all people.

Source: Read the original report