Shelter care program certification

1. An agency may not apply for a shelter care program certification until the department has reviewed the need for additional shelter care programs. To enable the department to make a determination of need for a new shelter care program, the potential applicant shall submit an initial request for application, including the following documentation and information to the department: a. The number, gender, and age range of the residents to be served; b. The employee staffing, including a list of full-time and part-time positions by job titles and description; c. A description of the proposed program; d. A proposed budget; and e. The geographic location of the shelter care program. 2. Upon receipt of initial request for application, the department shall: a. Review the detailed plan for the operation proposed by the agency; b. Ask for additional materials or information necessary for evaluation of need purposes; c. Respond in writing within thirty days of receipt of all required information from the potential agency; d. Send written notice of determination of need. The notice must state the specific reason for the determination. If the department determines there is need for additional shelter care program beds, the notice must be accompanied by an authorization for the agency to apply for certification to operate a shelter care program; and e. Inform the potential agency of what is required to move forward with the application process. 3. A shelter care home may not apply for a shelter care program certification as it does not qualify as an agency. 4. If an agency receives an authorization to apply for a shelter care program certification, the agency shall submit its application in the form and manner prescribed by the department. 5. Shelter care program certification applications must include the following documentation or information: a. A detailed plan for the operation of the shelter care program; b. Physical location and address of the shelter care program; c. A copy of the shelter care program floor plan with dedicated sleeping spaces; d. A list of current employees, background check dates, annual child abuse and neglect checks, and full-time and part-time status and job titles; e. A copy of the shelter care program's general comprehensive liability insurance; f. A copy of the shelter care program's vehicular insurance for transportation purposes; and g. Inspection reports. 6. Shelter care program certification is nontransferable and is valid only on the premises and for the specified number of residents indicated on the shelter care program certification, unless otherwise approved by the department. 7. An agency shall submit a new application for a shelter care program certification when there is a change in ownership. 8. Shelter care program certification is available for a maximum period of two years. 9. Shelter care program certification requires an agency to submit an annual application to the department, which will initiate an annual onsite visit.