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Adoption & Permanency

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Permanency Overview

Family Pathways is a SWAN affiliate. SWAN (Statewide Adoption and Permanency Network) is a Pennsylvania partnership among:

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  • The Department of Human Services

  • The Pennsylvania Adoption Exchange

  • Public and private adoption agencies

  • Advocates, judges, legal professionals

  • Foster and adoptive parents

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SWAN serves children in the custody of county Children and Youth Agencies.

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SWAN SERVICES AT FAMILY PATHWAYS

Family Pathways began offering SWAN services in 2002 at the request of Butler County Children and Youth Services (BCCYS). Family Pathways offers a full continuum of SWAN services.

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How SWAN Services Can Help Children in Care

  • ​Answer questions youth may have about their past

  • Help youth understand why they are in foster care

  • Support safe connections with birth family members

  • Assist in achieving permanency through adoption or long-term connections

  • Empower youth to have a voice in their future

Types of Services Offered

Child Preparation

A 6-month process helping children transition from foster care to permanency. Focuses on 5 core issues:Grief & Loss • Identity • Abandonment • Control • Loyalty • Attachment • Shame

Adoption Finalization

Guides children and families through the final steps of adoption, preparing them emotionally and legally.

Family Profile

A comprehensive overview of the adoptive or matching family’s background and current life situation. Family profiles are needed for the family matching unit and adoption.

Child Profile

A detailed summary of the child’s life history and functioning. Helps identify meaningful relationships and connections.

Family Matching Unit

Supports pre-adoptive families in forming lasting connections and matches them with children waiting for adoption. Work one on one with a facilitator to match with a youth looking for their forever family!

Older Child Matching Initiative (OCMI)

Specialized support for youth aged 10+ to help them find permanent families and lasting relationships.

Child Specific Recruitment

Helps locate permanent connections and adoptive families for children and youth.

Post-Permanency Services

Support after adoption is finalized, including:
 

  • Case advocacy

  • Support groups

  • Respite care
     

Families are eligible for post-permanency services after they have adopted a child through
SWAN. Post-Permanency referrals are through the SWAN helpline. 1-800-585-7926

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