Q: What is Fayette Youth Protection Homes?
Fayette Youth Protection Homes is a private, non-profit organization which operates the Friday-Johnson Home, a residential group home for children ages 6-17 who have been the victims of abuse or neglect.

Q. Who runs the homes?
A. Fayette Youth Protection Homes contracts with Georgia Baptist Children’s Homes to oversee the day-to-day operations of the home and employ staff for the program.

Q. What are your accreditations?
A. We are licensed with the Georgia Department of Human Resources and are accredited with the Council on Accreditation of Services for Families and Children. We are members of the Child Welfare League of America, Southeastern Child Care Association, and the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children.

Q. How do children and youth arrive at the home?
A. The Department of Family and Children Services refers children to the home who meet the criteria for placement. Acceptance of residents into the program is based upon the space available, current group or resident dynamics, date of application, prognosis for success and immediacy of need. Residents shall be, in most cases, in legal custody of the Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS), with priority given to Fayette County residents. However, youth from other counties are accepted as well.

Q. How many children can the Friday-Johnson Home serve?
A. The home can accommodate up to 10 children at a time. Two beds are designated as “emergency” beds for the Fayette County Department of Family and Children Services. The remaining 8 beds are for extended care.

Q. How long do residents stay at the home?
A. Children may reside at the home anywhere from a week to several years, depending on the needs of the individual child. The average length of stay is 8 months.

Q. Where do residents attend school?
A. Upon admission to the home, the educational needs of each child are
assessed. All of the children at the Friday-Johnson Home attend Fayette
County schools. Tutors come several times a week to assist the children
with their homework.

Q. Where do residents go when they leave the home?
A. The court and the DFCS caseworker determine the next placement for each case. The child could be placed in a foster home or with a relative. In most cases, the plan is for reunification with family, if at all possible. At all times, the best interest of the child is considered.

Q. How is the organization funded?
A. Fayette Youth Protection Homes is a private, non-profit organization with a 501 (c) (3) status. Contributions from individuals, civic groups, businesses, churches and foundations comprise the majority of funds needed for operation. The state of Georgia gives a partial reimbursement for children in state custody, and the Fayette County Commissioners help with partial funding for Fayette County children who stay at the Friday-Johnson Home. Creative fundraising events are planned by the Board of Directors year-round. Half the proceeds from the Fayette Thrift Shop benefit Fayette Youth Protection Homes, Inc. and the Friday-Johnson Home program.

Q. Who governs Fayette Youth Protection Homes?
A. A Board of Directors consisting of individuals representing a wide array of industries governs the organization. These individuals volunteer their time and talent to oversee the continued operation of the home. They also work directly with the managing agency to determine future programs and projects for the organization. Their function is to protect and enhance the organization’s capacity to serve the community.

Q. What do I do if I suspect my neighbor is abusing their children?
A. You should contact the local police department and your county’s Department of Family and Children Services.