Safe, Supervised Family Visits available through HCJC and The Children’s Home of Cincinnati Partnership

To protect the identities and confidentiality of the families and youth served, the Court has used alternate names for parties involved in these stories.

Facing multiple challenges, Aria was referred to The Children’s Home Family Visitation Center (FVC) by a Hamilton County Juvenile Court custody magistrate for supervised visits with her three children. In addition to a recent move, she had been separated from her children for 18 months. Two of the three children are diagnosed with autism and severe behavioral issues.

In preparation for the visit, the Family Visitation staff arranged the room with minimal distractions, provided weighted vests for two of the children, and a wide array of sensory items including fidget toys. The modifications and supplies enabled the children to settle down in a new, calm and comforting environment, which is often challenging for little ones on the autism spectrum.

The FVC is the only resource currently offered in our community to support supervised visitation for this family and others in similar circumstances so that parents can safely bond with their children. When the scheduled visits concluded, Aria reported the FVC gave her much needed hope and encouragement.

The Children’s Home Randall S. Bloch Family Visitation Center (FVC) provides a place where children are able to spend time with their parents in a private, safe, and nurturing environment. The FVC provides a supervised and safe environment for parents who have not had contact with their children for various reasons including criminal behavior, mental health concerns, history of violent behavior, and substance abuse issues.

Parents are able to utilize the FVC when a judge or magistrate orders supervised parenting time. The cost is income-based and many parents are able to visit for a $25 refundable fee.

During visits, FVC’s staff are available to support and connect families to community mental and behavioral health resources when needed.