JAMES CITY COUNTY — The James City County CARE Team, a program offered through the county and the City of Williamsburg Social Services departments, helps families work toward improved health and stability and will begin accepting new clients in 2026.
Designed to support families of children between zero and fifth grade age before challenges become crises, the James City County CARE Team pairs parents and children with a dedicated network of professionals focused on strengthening health, stability, and confidence one small step at a time.
Courtney Thomas, James City County CARE Team Coordinator, explained the program.
“The CARE Team is typically geared towards young families with young children. Each family is paired with a small, dedicated team that helps them set goals, build confidence, and move forward together. Through relationship building, coaching, and trust, the CARE Team focuses on empowering families to take small, meaningful steps that lead to lasting change,” Thomas explained.
Since its start, both the JCC and City of Williamsburg Care Teams have supported more than 45 families — 170-plus individuals — in building life skills around healthy living, self-advocacy, and economic stability. Families have reported improvements in children’s health, better sleep, more consistent medical care, and stronger school attendance.
During the program, families are guided as they take steps towards getting ahead in life. The CARE Team helps families set near-term and long-term realistic goals and meets with the family regularly to check in. Participation in the program is voluntary and can end at anytime.
Families can self-refer to the organization, be referred by schools, pediatricians, community organizations, or through Department of Social Services programs.
After pausing to transition to a new system in December, the CARE Team will begin accepting applications for new families in January.
Overall, Thomas hopes that more families will take advantage of the program if they need it.
“The goal isn’t to ‘fix’ people, but to help them build confidence, stability, and a plan that fits their life, all while learning how to be healthy and well,” Thomas said.
Those interested in participating in the program can fill out the referral form here.
For more information, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/3647/Care-Team.