CHERISH

Children Encouraged by Relationships in Secure Homes

Created by our partners at Kindering, CHERISH is a model for providing Early Support for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) services to child welfare systems-involved children and their families. CHERISH eligibility criteria includes families of children with a voluntary placement, open dependency case, open Child Protective Services (CPS) case, open Family Assessment Response (FAR) service, Voluntary Placement Agreements (VPA), and those engaged in Family Voluntary Services (FVS). 

To be eligible for CHERISH 0-3, a child needs to be enrolled in ESIT services in addition to meeting one of the above criteria. A provider meets with a child and their caregiver and/or parent 1-4 times/month, depending on need, until a child turns three years old. Supports for each child and family are individualized, but our therapists take a dyadic approach, so a parent or caregiver is always present during sessions.

CHERISH at WCEL:

At WCEL, our CHERISH model is dedicated to nurturing strong, healthy relationships between children and the key adults in their lives. We provide compassionate support and practical solutions for challenges related to attachment, trauma, development, visitation, transitions, and behavior.

Our specialized CHERISH team works to:

  • Minimize trauma

  • Stabilize placements

  • Support healthy transitions for children involved in the child welfare system

We collaborate closely with families and professionals—including caseworkers, pediatricians, and guardians ad litem—to ensure children receive holistic, coordinated care. While we do not advocate for a specific permanent plan, we prioritize reunification when possible and encourage positive relationships between caregivers and parents.

Each member of our CHERISH team receives advanced training and ongoing support through Kindering’s CHERISH program, ensuring high-quality, trauma-informed care.

Eligibility & Enrollment:

Families who qualify for WCEL services will be introduced to the CHERISH program during their intake process.

Meet the CHERISH Team

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Family Resource Coordinators