The Adoption and Alternative Planned Permanent Living Arrangement (APPLA) unit assures that children have permanency in the event returning to their birth family is no longer a viable option. In most cases, a "forever family" is found for the child and they will be adopted. Adoption caseworkers work closely with the TPR unit and the State-Wide Adoption and Permanency Network (SWAN) to ensure permanency for every waiting child.  The caseworker will work closely with the child and family in order to try and create a permanent home for the child with kin.

The Independent Living (IL) unit handles the cases of teenagers who will most likely not return home. These caseworkers bring specialized knowledge to helping youth navigate community resources and build the natural supports needed to function successfully as an adult.  A primary emphasis in this unit is the continued efforts to re-establish family connections that will last throughout the youth's life.  In addition, the youth receives specialized independent living skills training and support provided by vendor agencies. The goal is to prepare them for life after placement. These teens are eligible for services until the age of 21, whether or not they elect to remain in formal placement. Areas of training covered include higher education, coaching for job acquisition, apartment searching and lease agreements, checking and savings accounts, parenting and childcare, cooking and healthy living, and any other skills normally taught by parents to their young adults.  For further information on IL, contact Mary McGonigle at 610-782-3496.