CA AB1784

Establishes a pilot program in up to five counties (rural and urban) to increase placement stability for foster youth and improve resource family retention through strengths-based, trauma-informed coaching.

Requires participating counties to employ current social workers as coaches first, with option to hire new social workers or contract with private individuals if necessary; coaches must meet department-established criteria.

Coaches shall inform resource families of available state and county supportive services including respite care, 24-hour hotlines, and mental health services for foster youth.

Requires participating counties to conduct at least one evaluation of program effectiveness by December 31, 2021, and submit results to the department for legislative reporting.

Pilot program provisions expire January 1, 2022; department must consult stakeholders by June 30, 2019 on program parameters including county selection criteria, coaching curriculum, and evaluation methods.