SWIFT Program - Columbia Basin Office - Lutheran Community Services Northwest

SWIFT Program (Stabilization & Wellness in Families Together)

“I know my child best. I like that the SWIFT program sees me as the expert on my child!”
- Parent quote

“Thank you so much. Finally we are able to see the good things/positives in life and in each other.”
- Parent quote

What is the SWIFT Program?

The SWIFT Program is a hospital diversion program intended to provide crisis stabilization services to children and families in their natural environment, while meeting their emotional and mental health needs. It’s a strengths based, family driven program that uses wraparound principles to address and meet family identified needs. Families can utilize the program for up to 90 days.

The SWIFT program strives to empower families to reach out to their “natural” supports. These might include; neighbors, friends, extended family, faith based supports, childcare providers, and other persons who participate in the family’s everyday life.

Who is eligible?

Children ages 3-17, residents of Benton or Franklin Counties.
Children experiencing a mental health crisis who are in danger of hurting themselves or others.
Children who require a high level of supervision and therapeutic care.

How is the program accessed?

Most referrals must go through the Crisis Response Unit (CRU)-(509)783-0500. In some instances, a psychiatric hospital may suggest SWIFT to a family for a transition from the hospital.
The program can be accessed through CRU 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How is the program funded?

The SWIFT program is funded by Benton & Franklin Counties Human Services Division. There is no cost to families that utilize the program.

What kinds of services can be received while in the SWIFT program?

Services will be based on individual family need and may include:

Intensive Care Coordination
Crisis management as needed.
Child and Family Team meetings to include natural and formal supports.
Family Support Assistants (FSA)
Parent Partner
A Child Psychiatrist is available as needed.
24-hour crisis on-call support
Creation of an individualized plan of care and support plan. These plans are family driven to support their identified needs. The family picks their team members and each team members’ strengths are incorporated in the plan to meet the needs.

For more information, please contact:
Laurie Schoffstall, Director, Children's Intensive Services, (509) 735-6446 or by E-mail
Dana Fry, Program Supervisor / Care Coordinator, at (509) 735-6446, or by E-mail