Program Description

Screening, Assessment, and Support Service (SASS), is a 90-day intensive based program for children, adolescents and their families in crisis. SASS provides intensive mental health services for children and youth who may need hospitalization for mental health care. SASS will also provide crisis intervention, linkage and coordination of services to other community based mental health agencies for aftercare and outpatient treatment. The SASS program's main focus is to stabilize the family and maintain the youth at home and in the community. The program serves youth in all of Kane and Kendall counties.

The service is available by calling the Crisis and Referral Entry Services (CARES) line at 1-800-345-9049 (voice) or 1-773-523-4504 (TTY).


Eligibility

The SASS program screens youth whose ability to function at home, in school, or in the community at large is significantly impaired. These children and adolescents may be at risk of psychiatric hospitalization. The following criteria will be applied to determine age and financial eligibility:

  • Children under the age of 18 seeking public funding for psychiatric services through the Department of Human Services
  • Anyone enrolled in Medicaid or MCO
  • Any person whom DCFS has legal responsibility

SASS Services

  • 24 Hour Emergency Screenings
  • Intensive Family-Based Services
  • Case Management
  • Community Advocacy
  • Individual Care Grant Coordination
  • Parent Support Group
  • Comprehensive Assessment And Treatment Recommendations