Since 2003, Partners in Prevention (PIP) teams across the state have implemented a wide range of community-based activities focused on strengthening West Virginia families and helping children thrive. When the need for services increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, PIP teams stepped up to provide families with critical support.

Thanks to funds made available through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), in partnership with the WV Department of Health and Human Resources (WV DHHR), we are thrilled to present three outstanding teams with “Innovation Grants” to advance their efforts addressing the ongoing need.

These awards are intended to support larger-scale projects that prioritize primary prevention (i.e. strengthening protective factors to prevent child maltreatment before it occurs) and that exceed those activities currently funded by the annual Partners in Prevention mini-grants of $5,000 – $7,500.

The Recipients

High Rocks Academy, New Beginnings Leadership Journey – $25,000

Through their Leadership Journey class, High Rocks will equip 42 young West Virginians with the knowledge, competencies, and skills to serve as social emotional health peer advocates. Ultimately, the goal is for these individuals to become confident leaders in their peer groups, schools, and communities, modeling healthy choices and helping their peers to find and utilize social and emotional health resources.

Mineral County Family Resource Network, CASA’s Closet – $25,000

CASA’s Closet, a program from the Mineral County Family Resource Network, will provide support to families who are either in the process of reunification or at risk of having their child(ren) removed from the home. Staff and volunteers will utilize existing partnerships with the DHHR and all sub agencies, such as CPS, to meet the short term needs of these families by supplying them with food, clothing, bedding, etc, while also working to address long term needs such as job loss, financial planning, mental health needs, and more.

Regional Family Resource Network, On the Move – $25,000

In collaboration with the Putnam Wellness Coalition, Putnam County Quick Response Team (QRT), and Bin Blasters, the Regional Family Resource Network On the Move project will launch a mobile unit focused on helping address youth substance abuse issues throughout the county. The On the Move Mobile Unit will travel to local areas that have been deemed “hot spots” for substance misuse and child neglect, providing educational resources and on-site “pop-up” activities—including naloxone training—for families.