#USA #Oakland #Autism #Fred Finch #Crisis Program

Fred Finch Youth & Family Services Launches New Crisis Residential Treatment Program

On February 26, 2026, Fred Finch Youth & Family Services will inaugurate a cutting-edge crisis residential treatment program tailored for youth impacted by autism. This significant initiative marks an expansion in critical crisis residential care for young individuals with complex behavioral health challenges, offering them support and stabilization in a therapeutic environment. The event will take place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Fred Finch’s historic campus in Oakland, California.

In partnership with Kaiser Permanente, which provided funding for this transformative project, Fred Finch is dedicated to serving Kaiser members who require residential care during crises. With over 130 years of service, Fred Finch has evolved from its origins as an orphanage to become a leading provider of residential treatment, family support, transitional housing, and community-based behavioral health services across California.

The newly developed program leverages decades of therapeutic residential care expertise in the Bay Area and Southern California. It is designed to deliver short-term intensive stabilization for young clients, working closely with their families to facilitate a safe return to home environments. By presenting an alternative to emergency departments and long-term hospital placements, the program aims to strengthen continuous care for some of the region's most vulnerable youth, thereby helping to prevent unnecessary hospitalizations or institutional placements.

Tom Alexander, the president and CEO of Fred Finch Youth & Family Services, remarked, "For over 130 years, Fred Finch has adapted to meet the evolving needs of children and families. This innovation reflects our commitment to those facing real crises, providing them with a foundation rooted in care, expertise, and hope.” He highlighted the long-standing relationship with Kaiser Permanente and their shared focus on developing community-based behavioral health solutions.

Dr. Kavitha Rao, a child psychiatrist at Kaiser Permanente, added, "This project is more than just a building; it's a care space designed for the unique needs of youth grappling with complex behavioral health challenges.” The investment made by Kaiser Permanente aims not only to enhance the Fred Finch campus but also to expand access to specialized crisis stabilization services in the years to come.

About Fred Finch Youth & Family Services

Fred Finch Youth & Family Services is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting resilience, well-being, and equity for youth, families, and communities. Through culturally responsive and trauma-informed care, they provide mental health services, behavioral health support, and social services to those facing complex challenges, including trauma, poverty, homelessness, systemic barriers, and cognitive disabilities. For over a century, Fred Finch has collaborated with individuals and communities, ensuring access to compassionate and high-quality support to empower them in building brighter futures. For more information, visit https://www.fredfinch.org/.