FAQs

This budget process funds a broad range of DHS programs that support children, youth and families. This includes child welfare placements and caregiver subsidies, as well as family preservation and strengthening programs like Family Centers, out of school time, and basic needs supports. The budget also funds services operated by the county’s Office of Juvenile Probation, such as detention and placements for youth who have been adjudicated delinquent by the Courts.

Allegheny County receives its funds after the PA state budget is passed each year. The amount of funding received is impacted by the PA Office of Children, Youth and Families’ approval of NBPB requests, as well as the final budget passed by the PA state legislature. 

In 2026-2027, Allegheny County expects to receive $335M to fund the whole continuum of services.

DHS and Children, Youth, and Families (CYF) engage in extensive planning to identify needs and allocate funding. This process involves data analysis and use of client data to identify gaps in services, current research and best practices, and stakeholder engagement. 

DHS engages communities and stakeholders during the year through the CYF Advisory Board, Children’s Cabinet, client experience surveys with older youth and families in CYF, and the Needs-Based Plan and Budget public hearing.

While some of the services funded through the Needs-Based Plan and Budget are only available to youth and families identified by the County or Court system with specific needs, many services across Allegheny County are available to all families:

• Family Center locations offer resources and service connections for parents throughout the county
• Out-of-School time programs are open to youth year-round
• Families can visit the Allegheny Connect website to find childcare, food and other essentials
• Youth can visit the Allegheny Connect website to find support for housing, education, employment, and more young adult resources