The Washington County Juvenile Justice Program is a collaborative involving Washington County law enforcement agencies and school departments. The program focuses on youth between the ages of 11-17 who are at risk of court involvement or being placed out of the home by the courts due to family disruptions. The program works to prevent youth with mental health and behavioral challenges from entering the juvenile justice system and being removed from their homes, schools, and communities. This goal is achieved by helping families in times of crisis to utilize resources within their community for support and stability.

The mission of the Washington County Juvenile Justice Program is to provide family mediation, twenty-four hour crisis management, and referrals to youth and families experiencing crisis in southern Rhode Island.                                                                                 [back to top]

Youth that are appropriate for referral to this program include those adolescents ages 11-17 years old who are at risk for out of home placement by the courts due to family disruption. These disruptions are often brought about by truancy, status offenses, aggressive behaviors, family stressors and/or involvement with local police. This program does not serve adolescents actively using substances or in a home where abuse and neglect is suspected. Referrals can be made to WCJJP through police, schools, clergy, youth/families, and social service providers. WCJJP will assess each case referred to determine which services will best serve the youth and family. To make a referral, please call 364-7705 ext. 3213.                                                                                [back to top]

The Washington County Juvenile Justice Program offers short term placement opportunities to clients and their families. Placement opportunities are provided through Host Homes. Host Homes are individuals and families who volunteer to take those youth that are experiencing crisis within their natural families. Placements are short-term while attempts are made to resolve the crisis and reconcile the family or find alternative living arrangements for youth. A Host Home allows the youth and his/her family a “cooling off period” which affords them time to work through and resolve the conflict.                                                                                [back to top]