Mississippi § 43-51-3 - Definitions.

§ 43-51-3. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this section: “Child at imminent risk of placement” means a minor who may be reasonably expected to face, in the near future, commitment to the care or custody of the state as a result of: Dependency, abuse or neglect; Emotional disturbance; Family conflict so extensive that reasonable control of the child is not exercised; or Delinquency adjudication. “Home Ties Program” means a program under the State Department of Human Services of family preservation and family support services. “Family preservation services” means services designed to help families alleviate risks or crises that might lead to out-of-home placement of children. The services may include procedures to maintain the safety of children in their own homes, support to families preparing to reunify or adopt and assistance to families in obtaining services and other sources of support necessary to address their multiple needs in a culturally sensitive environment. “Family support services” means preventive community-based activities designed to alleviate stress and to promote parental competencies and behaviors that will increase the ability of families to successfully nurture their children and will enable families to use other resources and opportunities available in the community. These services may include supportive networks designed to enhance child-rearing abilities of parents and to help compensate for the increased social isolation and vulnerability of families. Examples of these services and activities include: respite care for parents and other caregivers; early developmental screening of children to assess the needs of these children and assistance in obtaining specific services to meet their needs; mentoring, tutoring and health education for youth; and a range of center-based activities, such as informal interactions in drop-in centers and parent support groups, and home visiting programs.