• LOCATIONS SERVED:

    Manhattan and Brooklyn

  • AGES SERVED:

    Families with children 6-18 years old; up to 21 for young people exiting foster care

The Foundling’s Improving Family Systems program targets young people between the ages of 6-18 that live in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and utilizes Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT), a service model used to improve family interactions, reduce risk factors, and strengthen protective factors against drug use and other conduct problems.

Children and teenagers who are involved with the child welfare system are at high risk, not only for foster placement, but also for a range of behavioral health issues including substance abuse. Appropriately supporting these young people demands a holistic approach that includes all members of the family.

Success Stories

Sharing responsibility and strengthening the family

Sixteen-year-old Sarah wanted to help care for her five siblings to support her family and because she was excited to become a mother herself one day. Unfortunately, her parents struggled with substance abuse and relied too heavily on Sarah to care for their younger children. They were referred to The Foundling and our team worked with the family to combat their substance abuse and to understand how their actions affected Sarah and her brothers and sisters. The right program model and their self-motivation helped them to move on and redistribute the responsibility for the family’s care.

Our Continued

Impact

30,000+
people served in The Foundling's programs every year
153
years providing life changing services to children, families, and adults in New York
9
program sites providing services throughout the New York metropolitan area
$5
donation launched The Foundling's work in 1869
18
evidence-based models and adaptations implemented with fidelity across our array of programs and service areas
40+
programs and services serving children, families, and adults across New York and Puerto Rico
DID YOU KNOW
The New York Foundling is one of New York City's largest providers of prevention programs

Resources

HISTORY
1869
October 11, 1869