gaither family cruise 2023

Cruise to the Caribbean with Bill & Gloria Gaither and their Homecoming Friends

Religion - Christian

About this Cruise

It’s our pleasure to invite you to travel with us once again. The Gaither Homecoming is cruising the Caribbean! We hope you’ll join us November 11-18, 2023, for more friendship, laughter, stunning ocean views, and the best Gospel music on earth. What a privilege it is to discover the world God made! The Caribbean shows off God’s creative power in new ways. We’ll explore ports like Amber Cove and the Bahamas’ Half Moon Cay. The folks of Holland America will be hosting us aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, a destination unto itself. Enjoy world-renowned service, along with their luxurious accommodations and superb cuisine. Wake up to the sea breeze from your balcony stateroom. Order a second (or third) dessert while sharing stories with believers who will become dear friends. One of the best things about Homecomings is that no two are alike. Come to think of it, I never know what will happen! We create a fantastic experience as we go, as the Spirit leads and the gifts of the artists inspire. Delight in evenings of Gospel greats and open God’s Word for daily devotions that nourish the soul. We thank God for friends like you who love to praise Him. Let’s get together and do together this in the Caribbean. We hope to see you there!

Sail Date(s):

Sunday, nov 12, 2023.

Ft Lauderdale - Bahamas

Cruise Line:

Holland America Line

Cruise Ship:

Nieuw Amsterdam

Cruise Type:

Private Group Cruise

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TRAVELER SUPPORT

Set sail on the adventure of a lifetime! Imagine waking up to breathtaking ocean views and a new destination every day. Effortlessly explore multiple cities and countries in one seamless journey, making the most of your precious travel time. Indulge in world-class cuisine, luxurious amenities and endless entertainment. Discover the spiritual impact of traveling with insightful teachers, Christian leaders and dynamic musicians to refresh your spirit.

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Welcome to listing page.

Tours & Events

Seattle, wa – alaska cruise.

Gaither Homecoming Alaskan Cruise

Gaither Cruises

St. Charles, MO – 2 Day Homecoming Event

Family Arena

Gaither Homecoming Concerts

Washington, DC

United States Capitol

Gaither Concert Tour

Johnson City, NY (Binghampton)

FBC Johnson City

Bensalem, PA

Christian Life Center

Saint Albans, WV

Marantha Fellowship Church

New Bern, NC

Temple Church

Savannah, GA

Johnny Mercer Theater

Lenoir City, TN

First Baptist Lenoir

Pigeon Forge, TN – Celebrators Conference

LECONTE CENTER

Alexandria, MN

Lake Geneva Christian Center

Bellevue Christian Center

Texarkana, TX

First Baptist Church

Flint Baptist

Shipshewana, IN – Christmas Concert

Blue Gate Performing Arts Center

Gaither Homecoming Farewell Caribbean Cruise

Family fest 2025 – 3 day event.

Gatlinburg Convention Center

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Tour schedule, station listings, united states, cable radio network, satellite radio, 3abn three angels network, internet streaming, vision christian radio network, program directors.

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Discover the Splendor of the Pacific Coast

Marvel at diverse cultures and intriguing flavors on a Pacific Coast cruise with Celebrity. Admire the scenery that spans everything from the snow-capped mountains of British Columbia to the rolling vineyards of California’s Napa Valley.

Enjoy English-style afternoon tea in Victoria, Canada. See iconic landmarks in San Francisco, from Fisherman’s Wharf to Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. Explore Vancouver’s lush Stanley Park, the city’s gleaming skyscrapers as a backdrop. Celebrity’s stylish, contemporary ships will show you the very best of this fascinating coastline in unparalleled style.

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Iconic landmarks.

You’ll be wowed by spectacular landmarks on a West Coast cruise. Sail under San Francisco’s graceful Golden Gate Bridge and gaze at the city’s skyline in the distance, the Transamerica Pyramid, and Alcatraz brooding in the bay. In Victoria, Canada, admire the lavish chateau-style architecture of the legendary Empress Hotel. When you’re in Astoria, check out the intricate Astoria Column, its elaborate artwork telling the story of westward exploration.

Exciting Marine Life

There’s wildlife to spot all the way along the Pacific coast—including the unexpected. Vancouver Island is known for its spectacular whale watching, including orca, minke whales, and humpbacks. You could even see humpbacks breaching in San Francisco Bay as you sail under the Golden Gate Bridge. Astoria, meanwhile, is a great place to spot sea lions basking along the waterfront.

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Culinary adventures await in every port along the Pacific coast. From San Francisco, head over the Golden Gate Bridge to Napa Valley for a wine-tasting tour. In the city, sample authentic dim sum in bustling Chinatown. Astoria is famed for its salmon, artisan cheeses, and hazelnut ice cream. Try craft beers and those famous Oregon wines. In Vancouver, foodies will love Granville Island’s Public Market, where anything from organic coffee to Mexican street food is on offer.

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On Celebrity’s ships, you can enjoy a different restaurant at every meal. Try anything from delicious seafood to flavor-packed Italian and gourmet French cuisine. Elevate your cruise to the next level with The Retreat®, with suite accommodation, access to a private lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat.

Let Celebrity take you to some of the most exciting ports along the Pacific coast, from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, famous for its Spanish colonial architecture and buzzing beaches. Take in the culinary scene and gorgeous beaches of San Diego and hike flower-filled trails on Catalina Island. We will help you make the most of your time ashore with our range of imaginative excursions, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and custom-designed Private Journeys.

Let Celebrity take you to some of the most exciting ports along the Pacific coast, from San Francisco to Vancouver, famed for its laid-back lifestyle and beautiful mountain backdrop. We will help you make the most of your time ashore with our range of imaginative excursions, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and custom-designed Private Journeys.

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Top Pacific Coastal FAQs

Where do Pacific Coastal cruises go?

Pacific Coastal cruises sail between Los Angeles and Vancouver, Canada.

Ports between Los Angeles and Vancouver include San Francisco and Victoria on Vancouver Island. You could also enjoy a day in Astoria, Oregon, or an overnight stay in San Francisco, depending on the itinerary.

Both of Celebrity’s itineraries include days at sea to enjoy the ship, relax in the spa, bask by the pool, and look out for marine life.

Where do cruises depart from on the West Coast?

Cruises depart from Los Angeles on one-way northbound voyages, ending in Vancouver, or from Vancouver on southbound voyages, ending in Los Angeles. 

What should I pack?

The Pacific Northwest can include considerable variations in climate between Los Angeles and Vancouver. A light waterproof jacket is a good idea for the northernmost ports, as are layers. The weather can transform in an instant, especially in San Francisco, which is prone to fog that can melt away in the sunshine. Pack good walking shoes, too, as there are multiple opportunities to explore beautiful landscapes and cities on foot.

Bring a pair of binoculars as the marine life in the Northwest is spectacular, and you stand a good chance of spotting whales and dolphins.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through cover-ups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the theater. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip-flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features at least one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

Are there any ports of call outside of the U.S.?

Yes, both of our Pacific Coast itineraries include ports of call outside of the U.S. You’ll visit Victoria and Vancouver in Canada.

When is the best time to cruise?

The best time to explore the West Coast is spring, summer, and fall, when the weather is generally good. In spring and fall, places like Los Angeles are pleasant, rather than hot, and you should have ideal conditions for hiking, strolling around cities, and even sunbathing. Early fall is another beautiful time to visit, when the days are still warm and the trees in the coastal forests are beginning to take on their fall colors.

How long are cruises along the West Coast?

Our cruises along the West Coast last for six nights.

What types of landscapes and sights can I expect to see during the cruise?

On any Pacific Coastal cruise, you’ll see a wonderful combination of vibrant cities and beautiful landscapes.

San Francisco is famous for many things: the Golden Gate Bridge, vintage cable cars, Alcatraz, museums, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Pretty Victoria is known for its colonial charm and the glorious colors of Butchart Gardens, while Vancouver is surrounded by water, with a backdrop of often snow-capped mountains.

You’ll have a chance to be immersed in nature on these cruises. Astoria, on the edge of the forested, misty Pacific Northwest, is a great place for cycling and hiking, as well as learning about the epic expedition of Lewis and Clark. In contrast, California’s Napa Valley is the place to head for rolling hills, lush scenery, and wine tasting.

What kind of excursions can I book?

We offer a wide range of excursions to suit every taste. You can go whale watching from Vancouver Island and cycling in Astoria. From San Francisco, you could take a tour to Sausalito and Muir Woods, or to Sonoma Wine Country for a tasting. If you choose an itinerary with an overnight in San Francisco, you could join a nighttime city tour with dinner in Chinatown.

Essentially, you will find a shore excursion to suit your tastes, whether your interest is history and architecture, wildlife, food and wine, or nature and physical activity. 

How many days at sea will I have? What is there to do on board?

Our Pacific Coastal itineraries each have two days at sea, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ship.

You’ll find a wonderful choice of activities during these sea days. Relax by the pool or join a workout class in the Fitness Center. Listen to live music or try a wine tasting. Sample delightful dishes from all the different restaurants on board, which range from poolside made-to-order burgers and salads to delicious sushi, contemporary Italian, and clean cuisine in Blu. In the evenings, you’ll find glittering entertainment in The Theatre, as well as late-night dancing.

Elevate your experience at The Retreat® , which gives you suite accommodation and access to a luxurious lounge as well as the fine dining restaurant Luminae at The Retreat.

What is there to do on the ship?

You’ll find no shortage of things to do on board your luxurious Celebrity ship. Sunbathe by the pool, relax in a bubbling hot tub, join a class in the Fitness Center, or indulge in a treatment in the spa. 

Enjoy exploring all the different dining options, from made-to-order burgers and salads by the pool to French classics and a delightful 3D cartoon animation in Le Petit Chef, and steaks and seafood in the elegant Tuscan Grille. Elevate your experience to The Retreat and you can enjoy fine dining in Luminae, as well as suite accommodation and access to an exclusive lounge.

On Edge-Series ships, the Magic Carpet, suspended over the side of the ship, gives you uninterrupted sea views and is the perfect place to sit with a coffee or cocktail, enjoying the sea air. Or spend part of your Panama Canal transit in the Sunset Bar, at the aft of the ship, for wonderful views of the ships following you.

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• Ask a Cruise Question

Travel and Cruise Showcase 2023 scam?

By Cruise till you drop , June 6, 2023 in Ask a Cruise Question

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Cruise till you drop

Did anyone else get a mailer that gives you complimentary cruise and airfare if you attend this event?

It sounds like a scam but wanted to get others thoughts or experiences 

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Share on other sites.

Meander Ingwa

check out Scam Pulse it shows up there.  

53 minutes ago, Meander Ingwa said: check out Scam Pulse it shows up there.  

Thanks but I’ve looked at all the categories and can’t find a thread called Scam Pulse

Can you direct me a little closer

9 minutes ago, Cruise till you drop said: Thanks but I’ve looked at all the categories and can’t find a thread called Scam Pulse   Can you direct me a little closer

It's a website. Type scam pulse into Google and it comes right up.

1 hour ago, mom says said: It's a website. Type scam pulse into Google and it comes right up.

Actually I’d rather hear from Cruise Critic people.  I’m sure there are many things on cruise critic that can be found on other sites.

I googled scam pulse and read their reviews on trustpilot (which I have used before).  Personally, I think I'd take whet I read on scampulse with a grain of salt

edinburgher

Did anyone else get a mailer that gives you complimentary cruise and airfare if you attend this event   sounds like a scam but wanted to get others thoughts or experiences 

Absolutely no need to google or look at any other sites, as that age old saying springs to mind.

IF IT SOUNDS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE IT USUALLY IS.

19 hours ago, Cruise till you drop said: Did anyone else get a mailer that gives you complimentary cruise and airfare if you attend this event?   It sounds like a scam but wanted to get others thoughts or experiences 

I would also be skeptical (and was hoping you would get a response).  What was the event they wanted you to attend?  Are they still doing the time share stuff I wonder? 

SeaSickCecil

I'll help you out.  IT'S A SCAM!  I refer you to the top Google search from Talk of the Villages January 2023 ( retirement residences in Florida) where the exact same question was posted (was that you as well?) and responses were provided from people who had called the number, friends of theirs who had called/gone to the event etc.  It is a travel club and/or timeshare.  You will get no bargains out of it.  The 'free' tickets come with many many conditions including extra fees.  I would also suggest you go to Elliott.org or Christopher Elliott's social media pages where he has many articles on travel scams and timeshare scams.

If you're still thinking about this then the adage 'a fool and his money are soon parted' comes to mind.

Throw this flyer in the trash...do not pass go, do not collect anything....

You're welcome.

1 hour ago, SeaSickCecil said: I'll help you out.  IT'S A SCAM!  I refer you to the top Google search from Talk of the Villages January 2023 ( retirement residences in Florida) where the exact same question was posted (was that you as well?) and responses were provided from people who had called the number, friends of theirs who had called/gone to the event etc.  It is a travel club and/or timeshare.  You will get no bargains out of it.  The 'free' tickets come with many many conditions including extra fees.  I would also suggest you go to Elliott.org or Christopher Elliott's social media pages where he has many articles on travel scams and timeshare scams. If you're still thinking about this then the adage 'a fool and his money are soon parted' comes to mind. Throw this flyer in the trash...do not pass go, do not collect anything.... You're welcome.

Thank you and no, I have never posted about this before.

3 hours ago, ldubs said:   I would also be skeptical (and was hoping you would get a response).  What was the event they wanted you to attend?  Are they still doing the time share stuff I wonder? 

The details of the event were vague.  It indicated a local Marriott that would be hosting the event and a number to call for the event details all masked as Travel and Cruise Showcase 2023

Sounds fishy at best.

SPacificbound

They do them at Marriott locations here also, waste of time.

• 4 weeks later...

Here is it again in 2023. Does anyone have any new information about this Travel and Cruise offer yet?  

If something sounds too good to be true, it is.

I got the postcard in the mail today!  I'm considering going to the show to see what is offered just out of curiosity.  Original poster:  did you go to the show?

5 hours ago, the nurse said: I got the postcard in the mail today!  I'm considering going to the show to see what is offered just out of curiosity.  Original poster:  did you go to the show?

I did not as I’ve made it my life’s work to avoid these types of scams.  Please report back after you go to the show and tell us about it

Well, we decided to attend the Next Travel Destination show.  It was held in the Sheraton Four Points Hotel in Punta Gorda, Florida.  16 of us were in attendance.  The Vice President of Marketing did the presentation.  It's a members only travel agency.  He claims that there are 3 million members.  The presentation lasted about an hour and then a salesperson came to each couple's table.  The cost of the Platinum Lifetime Membership started at $9,995 with annual dues of $199.  Our salesman, offered us multiple discounts with the final price being $3,500.  We didn't accept the offer, but at least two other couples did sign up.  This was truly a "no pressure to sign up" presentation.  We were in and out in less than 90 minutes with a handshake from the salesperson.

We were given a certificate for a 5 day Carnival cruise, or options for other vacation offers.

This needs to be filled out and sent to Customer Choice Rewards, in Tarpon Springs, FL, along with a self addressed stamped envelope.  

I'll keep you posted with the outcome!  I don't have high expectations for this working out, but I felt like it would be a good experiment.  Being retired, we have the time and we found out where the free bicycle rental place is in Punta Gorda!  This was a nice diversion from dealing with Hurricane Ian repairs at our home.  

2 hours ago, the nurse said: Well, we decided to attend the Next Travel Destination show.  It was held in the Sheraton Four Points Hotel in Punta Gorda, Florida.  16 of us were in attendance.  The Vice President of Marketing did the presentation.  It's a members only travel agency.  He claims that there are 3 million members.  The presentation lasted about an hour and then a salesperson came to each couple's table.  The cost of the Platinum Lifetime Membership started at $9,995 with annual dues of $199.  Our salesman, offered us multiple discounts with the final price being $3,500.  We didn't accept the offer, but at least two other couples did sign up.  This was truly a "no pressure to sign up" presentation.  We were in and out in less than 90 minutes with a handshake from the salesperson. We were given a certificate for a 5 day Carnival cruise, or options for other vacation offers. This needs to be filled out and sent to Customer Choice Rewards, in Tarpon Springs, FL, along with a self addressed stamped envelope.   I'll keep you posted with the outcome!  I don't have high expectations for this working out, but I felt like it would be a good experiment.  Being retired, we have the time and we found out where the free bicycle rental place is in Punta Gorda!  This was a nice diversion from dealing with Hurricane Ian repairs at our home.      

Glad to hear it was no pressure and your invested time was minimal.  Not what I expected to hear.  Thanks for reporting back 

I received this invite in today's mail. My initial thought was that they got my name from some cruise data base, if such a data base even exists. The clincher for me was that both my last and first name were spelled incorrectly (in addition to my name or "current resident" invited)  so I know they didn't get it from some legit information that the cruise lines might sell.  Oh well, I was excited for at least a moment!

On 7/28/2023 at 12:27 PM, the nurse said:   We were given a certificate for a 5 day Carnival cruise, or options for other vacation offers .  

In this case, I think I would choose the latter.  

Reply to "The Nurse". We also attended a "presentation" and decided (barely) to pass. We were told our vouchers would come by email ("as it is not safe for us to carry them anymore"). Have yet to see anything. Did you get your vouchers at the presentation? Have you had a response yet?

Many years ago I did something similar and after paying a fee of @ $400 I did get a vacation as advertised and even got my money refundad after completing the trip!

1 hour ago, Dougm141 said: Reply to "The Nurse". We also attended a "presentation" and decided (barely) to pass. We were told our vouchers would come by email ("as it is not safe for us to carry them anymore"). Have yet to see anything. Did you get your vouchers at the presentation? Have you had a response yet? Many years ago I did something similar and after paying a fee of @ $400 I did get a vacation as advertised and even got my money refundad after completing the trip!

We mailed our certificate to Customer Choice Rewards, in Tarpon Springs, FL, along with a self addressed stamped envelope about 10 days ago.  No voucher yet.  🙂

Just got another one.  They are persistent 

When I read "....you will receive (2) two complimentary round trip airline vouchers" (Yea on what airline? AND "....valid for travel from most major international airports" Yea what airports? AND (In addition you will receive (2) two nights at one of over 1,000 Marriott, Hilton, or Hyatt Hotels)......I said NO! We don't need to dilly dally on the phone with with these "MORONS" we have better things to do.

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Check out the New Family Events and Entertainment at California's Great America!

California's Great America Seasons of Fun

Experience the thrill of Seasons of Fun at California's Great America, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley. Whether you're seeking adventure with friends or spending quality time with loved ones, CGA promises non-stop entertainment and unforgettable memories, all year long. With live shows, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, explore the vibrant energy of spring, the festive allure in winter, and everything in between!

All dates are subject to change.

Fun is always in season at California’s Great America, and special events throughout the year mean there’s constantly something to see and experience. PEANUTS Celebration invites guests to step into the iconic world of Charles M. Schulz comic strips as the characters take over the park with special moments and activities for everyone to enjoy. The limited-time event features the resurgence of musical stage shows, playful Instagrammable photo opportunities and a variety of delectable PEANUTS-inspired food and drink items. The much-anticipated return of PEANUTS Celebration offers something fun for everyone!

Summer is the season of fun-filled events and festivals, and this year is no exception. From lively summer festivals to a Fourth of July events with fireworks and patriotic music, there’s something for everyone.

Kick off the summer with splashtastic fun with South Bay Shores waterpark ! With more than a dozen waterslides and aquatic attractions – featuring the nearly vertical plunge of Pacific Surge and the kid-friendly Tide Pool – South Bay Shores will have waves of fun crashing ashore at California’s Great America.

Celebrate the larger-than-life New Orleans festival, Carnivale at Orleans Place , with bold Cajun flavors, live music and entertainment from the Big Easy, and concludes with the Spectacle of Color Parade featuring a host of Mardi Gras floats. A dance party and spectacular fireworks high over Orleans Place finishes off the evening. Let the good times roll!

Fall is a season of vibrant festivities, where people come together to celebrate the changing colors of leaves and the crisp cool air. The family-friendly, immersive Halloween event, Tricks and Treats , is back for guests of all ages who want to celebrate the fall season without the intense scares. The returning event invites guests to join in on festive fun with a trick-or-treat trail, Halloween-themed games and activities, special live entertainment, along with the most delicious fall-inspired foods, sweets, and drinks.

Winter festivals are a magical time of year filled with joy and celebration. From ice skating to live music and entertainment, there’s something for everyone. The Bay Area’s most immersive holiday event returns this year, sparkling brighter than ever before. WinterFest brings holiday cheer to California’s Great America as the park is magically transformed into a winter wonderland and holiday festival. Our Christmas tree lighting ceremony brings together families and friends to witness the beautiful tree come to life. And let’s not forget about the stunning holiday lights display around the park. Come join in the festivities and make unforgettable memories this winter season.

California News | State threatened criminal charges over Santa…

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California news | 14-day-old vallejo boy and his mother found after suspected parental kidnapping, california news, subscriber only, california news | state threatened criminal charges over santa clara county unlicensed foster care crisis, child welfare advocate: “there’s nobody to pick up the ball”.

Child-welfare advocates say the county should face consequences for failing to appropriately license long-term housing of its most troubled and vulnerable children to ensure proper review and safety, which the Bay Area News Group revealed in May .

“This idea that they’re sending them to fly-by-night places that are unregulated is tragic and horrible,” said Dr. JeoffryGordon, a member of a state citizens advisory board that reviews child abuse cases. “It’s irresponsible to the max. It’s a crime.”

The county said in a statement last week that it has “faced major obstacles and challenges” from state overseers and blamed the state in part for “years-long licensing processes for critically needed” foster care services.

But Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen, who’s taken strong stands concerning vulnerable children and recently charged a couple with murder after their child overdosed on fentanyl at their house, told the Bay Area News Group he’s eyeing the situation closely.

“We will pay close attention for any developments that weigh upon the safety of our community’s children,” Rosen said in a statement Monday. “If we discover a crime has been committed we will not shirk our duty.”

Counties across California have grappled with caring for high needs foster children since 2015 when the state legislature adopted landmark child welfare reform intended to place foster youths with relatives and foster families instead of group homes. That led to scores of group homes across California closing by 2019 — including a Santa Clara County shelter called the RAIC that was riddled with problems .

But since then, Alameda, Contra Costa and San Francisco counties all have developed, with the help of private providers, fully licensed “short term residential therapeutic program” group homes.

In Santa Clara County, however, private providers either couldn’t meet the state requirements or backed out of providing such services, and the county didn’t develop any of its own. Instead, without enough willing foster families, the county leased private homes around the county, called scattered sites, and without state approval opened them to the most troubled youth.

The California Department of Social Services, which regulates child care facilities, in 2020 called the county’s unlicensed group homes for foster children “unlawful” and said they “must cease.”

On Aug. 9, 2023, the state Department of Social Services sent a letter to the county’s Department of Children and Family Services director, Damion Wright, saying the county was violating the California Health and Safety code and its “continued operation without a license could result in civil and/or criminal action.”

In a Sept. 1 letter of response, Wright said the county had been working “diligently” to address the shortage of placement options, but that youth in the scattered sites are “extraordinarily challenging (if not impossible) to place.” The scattered sites, he said, have a “distinct therapeutic milieu” with staff trained in crisis intervention and therapeutic services available to youth.

But the threat spurred the county’s Department of Family and Children’s Services to file paperwork to formally license three remaining scattered sites in San Jose and Morgan Hill. After a visit last month by a state inspector, they are in the final stages of becoming licensed.

But the license the county is seeking only allows children to stay for three days — 10 days with a waiver. Already, children, ages 12-17, have been routinely living there for weeks if not months. In a report last year, the county’s Juvenile Justice Commission doubted the county could comply with the terms of short-term licenses.

“Even when the sites are licensed,” the commission said, “youth will stay significantly longer than three days, as the County simply does not have enough homes for high acuity youth.”

The county’s “Welcoming Center,” the first stop for neglected or abused children, is licensed to take in youths for no more than 24 hours. It sometimes keeps older children for weeks — which the county acknowledged to this news organization, blaming a “statewide shortage of placements for high-need children.”

It’s unclear how much more patience authorities will have. The state Department of Social Services said in a statement to this news organization that it “has not issued fines and continues to work with the county.”

In a May 30 memo updating the county Board of Supervisors on the scattered sites, Daniel Little, director of the county Social Services Agency that established the homes in 2020, said the county is actively recruiting more “intensive care” foster families to serve as a better landing spot for these high-needs children. The county now has contracts to increase the number of beds in those settings from 17 to 33, he wrote.

But Little also said the county is only “exploring” the development of fully-licensed “therapeutic” group homes that neighboring Bay Area counties have had in operation for at least four years. Little called for new state legislation to “empower counties.” He declined to comment.

The county in its statement defended the scattered sites.

“With limited options for the highest need youth in our care, the County created home-like environments supervised by DFCS staff who have devoted their professional lives to serving children in our community,” the county said. “But even though these homes have created a better option for youth in our county, we and other counties must do more to improve care for children with extreme behaviors and needs who are rejected by all other potential placements.”

Without state oversight, however, there are few inspections, so it’s unclear what level of care is actually being provided, child welfare advocates say.

Supervisor Joe Simitian, who in 2019 signed off on an “essential agreement” with the state promising the county would properly care for its high-needs foster children, blamed the state.

“My expectation was that the county would get to ‘yes’ sooner than later,” Simitian said. “Clearly that hasn’t happened.”

Supervisor Cindy Chavez said she is “absolutely not” pleased with the current situation. But it was unclear what further steps the board, which employs the county executive who oversees social services, might take.

“Am I impatient about it? One-hundred percent, the same way I would be if this were my kid,” Chavez said.

Gordon said the board needs to turn up the heat, “shake up” the social services agency and find a full-time “champion” to follow through.

“When the county bureaucracy doesn’t do what it’s responsible for, there’s nobody to pick up the ball and say, Wake up, folks,” Gordon said. “You’ve got a job to do here.”

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