MEDIA CONTACT
Jeff Powell, (402) 471-6223,
jeff.powell@nebraska.gov
Lincoln – CarePortal, a technology platform Nebraska began using in 2017 has done for child welfare what other companies have successfully done to disrupt entire industries such as ride-sharing and home-sharing. CarePortal enables care-sharing, which connects churches directly with Nebraska families in need of tangible support services.
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Division of Children and Family Services (CFS) teamed up with two implementation partners in Nebraska, Christian Heritage, and Compass to connect children in need with community responders willing to help.
The results have been impressive. In 2022, Compass which serves Hall, Buffalo, and Adams counties, helped connect 385 children with services with an estimated economic impact of $150,920. Christian Heritage which serves Lancaster, Douglas, and Sarpy Counties served 631 kids with an estimated economic impact of $156,106. Since 2017, it is estimated that 3,485 children were supported with a total economic impact of $1,229,429.
“The most important tool we have in improving a child and families life is through the strength of our communities and the success of CarePortal is proof of that," said DHHS CEO Dannette R. Smith. “I greatly appreciate the support of the community organizations involved and hope more will consider joining."
As DHHS continues to raise awareness in April for Child Abuse Prevention Month, the data shows that children who grow up with nurturing relationships and supportive communities are more academically successful and able to thrive. CarePortal is an important tool in leveraging the faith-based community to support children, build local connections, and strengthen families.
While CarePortal has been a great success, there is always a need for more churches and community responders to participate. If you are a church, business, community group, or individual looking to help your community, please visit the following link.