Washington Revised Code Title 74. Public Assistance § 74.14A.020. Services for emotionally disturbed and mentally ill children, potentially dependent children, and families-in-conflict

(1) Serving children and families as a unit in the least restrictive setting available and in close proximity to the family home, consistent with the best interests and special needs of the child;

(2) Ensuring that appropriate social and health services are provided to the family unit both prior to and during the removal of a child from the home and after family reunification;

(3) Ensuring that the safety and best interests of the child are the paramount considerations when making placement and service delivery decisions;

(4) Recognizing the interdependent and changing nature of families and communities, building upon their inherent strengths, maintaining their dignity and respect, and tailoring programs to their specific circumstances;

(5) Developing and implementing comprehensive, preventive, and early intervention social and health services which have demonstrated the ability to delay or reduce the need for out-of-home placements and ameliorate problems before they become chronic or severe;

(6) Authorizing and facilitating blended funding for children who require services and residential treatment from multiple services systems; including child welfare services, mental health, alcohol and drug, and juvenile rehabilitation;

(7) Being sensitive to the family and community culture, norms, values, and expectations, ensuring that all services are provided in a culturally appropriate and relevant manner, and ensuring participation of racial and ethnic minorities at all levels of planning, delivery, and evaluation efforts;