Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most. If you do not see your question, contact us and we will help.
Getting Connected
What is Children's System of Care (CSOC)?
CSOC is New Jersey’s system for helping children, youth, and young adults (up to the age of 21) with behavioral health, emotional, developmental, substance use, or other support needs. CSOC provides community-based, culturally competent services and supports based on the needs of the youth and family with the goal of helping youth thrive in their homes, schools, and communities.
What is PerformCare?
PerformCare is New Jersey's central point of access for children's behavioral health, intellectual and developmental disability, or substance use treatment services. Available 24/7 call 877-652-7624 to start.
For more information:
- NJ Children's System of Care Flyer - About - PerformCare
- Introducción a PerformCare NJ, texto en español
What happens after I call PerformCare?
After you call PerformCare, they will talk with you about your child and family’s needs and help connect you to the right supports and services. These may include care management, mobile response and stabilization services, a more in-depth assessment, outpatient services, or other supports.
If your child is experiencing a crisis, PerformCare can arrange for Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) to come to your home, often within one hour. MRSS provides support to help keep your child safe and stable at home. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and may continue for up to eight weeks if needed. In Mercer County, MRSS is provided by Catholic Charities.
Who is eligible for CCCC services?
CCCC services are for Mercer County youth, usually ages 5–21, who have complex emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs. Children under age 5 may also be considered.
Eligibility is determined through the Children’s System of Care referral and assessment process. A needs assessment is often completed, unless your child is already working with a licensed clinician who can complete a Clinical Summary Template.
What services for Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities are available through PerformCare even if a family is not involved with CMO?
If your child has a diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability and is under the age of 18, additional supports may be available through PerformCare. The first step is finding out about DD Eligibility and how to apply.
After your child is approved for DD eligibility, ask about additional supports that may be available based on your child and family’s needs, including:
Family Support Services (FSS): Family Support Services FAQ - PerformCare
- Assistive Technology
- Respite
- Educational Advocacy
Summer camps: Summer Camp
See the FAQs for youth and families about all these services on the PerformCare website.
About CCCC
How can Capitol County Children’s Collaborative (CCCC) help my family?
CCCC partners with families to help children succeed. We bring together a strong support team, connect families to helpful services, and build skills and confidence to handle challenges. Our goal is to help your family move from surviving to thriving. You are never alone. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
What does this cost?
Care Management services through CSOC are free for families. We can help you apply for Medicaid if needed. Some services may have different eligibility or funding requirements, and your Care Manager will help you understand your options.
What if I need help right now?
If you are already enrolled and need help after hours, call CCCC at (609) 584-0888 and press 1. If you are not yet enrolled, call PerformCare at 877-652-7624. In an emergency, call 911.
How long does it take to get services started?
Services begin shortly after we receive your referral. A Care Manager will meet with your family within 72 hours to learn about your child’s strengths and needs. Together, you’ll create a plan to support your family, and services will begin once the right providers are in place.
What services are available to children, youth, and families who are not enrolled with CCCC?
CCCC partners with community organizations to identify and respond to local needs. Through the Comfort Care and Community Connections Resource Shop, we offer a diaper bank and donated items such as clothing, books, toys, and food.
We also host community events throughout the year, including School’s Back… Now What?, where families can receive free backpacks and school supplies, and Fall into Wellness, which includes Thanksgiving baskets. In addition, we partner with local agencies to offer parent workshops on topics such as navigating the Children’s System of Care and understanding special education.
These events and resources are open to the community. To stay informed, follow CCCC on Facebook or Instagram and check for upcoming events.
Working With a Care Manager
What does a care manager do?
A Care Manager works with your family to understand your child’s strengths, needs, and goals. They help create a Plan of Care which we call an Individualized Service Plan (ISP), connect you with services and community supports, and make sure everyone involved is working together.
Your Care Manager is also there to listen, answer questions, and support your family as you navigate the Children’s System of Care.
What happens at an initial visit?
Your Care Manager, along with a Supervisor or Senior Care Manager, will meet with you and your child to get to know your family and explain how CCCC can help.
During this visit, they will answer questions, review paperwork, learn about your family’s strengths and needs, begin a crisis plan, and schedule your first Child and Family Team meeting.
What is a Child Family Team?
A Child and Family Team (CFT) is a group of people who work together to support your child and family. This team may include family members, friends, teachers, therapists, service providers, and other trusted people. Together, you create a plan based on your family's goals and vision. You choose who is on your team. Our goal is to help build a strong support network that continues to support your family even after CMO services end.
How often will my child be seen?
Your Care Manager will keep in touch with your family regularly. This includes a weekly phone call/check in and face-to-face visits about every two weeks. Visits may happen more or less often depending on your family’s needs.
Will you meet at my home?
Yes. Many services including visits with your Care Manager are provided where children and families spend time, such as home, school, and community settings.
How long can my child receive services?
Every family’s needs are different. Services continue as long as they are helpful. When your family is ready, the team will work with you to plan a smooth transition and connect you with ongoing supports through school, community resources, and insurance.
What if I have concerns about my services?
Your voice matters, and we are here to help. If you have a concern about your services, we encourage you to speak with your Care Manager first. If your concern is not resolved, you can contact their Supervisor, the Clinical Manager, or the CCCC office directly – 609-585-0888. We will take your concerns seriously, listen with care, and partner with you to address the issue.
We also encourage families to utilize this link to provide feedback: [feedback survey]
Getting Involved
How do I apply for a job at CCCC?
CCCC posts all current employment opportunities on Indeed. We encourage interested candidates to regularly check our listings for available positions.
Even if there are no current openings that match your interests, you are welcome to submit your resume and application materials for future consideration. Should a position become available that aligns with your qualifications and experience, a member of our team may contact you.
If you have any questions about employment opportunities at CCCC, please email us at info@capitolkids.org. We are always interested in connecting with talented individuals who are passionate about supporting children and families in our community.
How do I intern at CCCC?
CCCC welcomes both undergraduate and graduate student interns who are interested in gaining hands-on experience in the nonprofit sector. Internship opportunities are available across several departments, and the best placement will depend on your educational focus, career goals, and program requirements.
To learn more about current opportunities and discuss the department that may be the best fit for you, please contact us at Info@capitolkids.org. We look forward to hearing from you!
How can I volunteer intern at CCCC?
We welcome volunteers and interns who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families in our community.
To learn more about current volunteer and internship opportunities, please visit our Donate Page. There, you'll find information about available placements, partnership programs, and ways to get involved.
We also encourage you to follow CCCC on social media to stay up to date on upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, internships, and other ways to support our mission.
How can I make a donation?
Your support helps CCCC continue providing programs and services for children and families in our community. To make a contribution, please visit our Donate Page. We gratefully accept both monetary donations and in-kind contributions.
Every donation, large or small, helps make a meaningful difference. To learn more about current donation needs or to arrange an in-kind donation, please contact us through our website or reach out to our team directly. Thank you for supporting CCCC and the families we serve.
What is a Village Builder?
Village Builders is CCCC's monthly giving program designed for supporters who want to make a lasting impact throughout the year.
By making a recurring monthly gift, Village Builders provide reliable support that helps CCCC plan ahead, respond to community needs, and serve more children and families year-round. Monthly donations create a stable foundation for our programs and ensure that help is available when it is needed most.
To join the Village Builders program, visit our Donate Page and select the recurring donation option. Thank you for helping us build a stronger village for children and families.
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