Referral
An appropriate referral source begins the DFCS process.
Autism Respite Care ServicesFamily-centered supportGeorgia DHS and DFCS initiative
Contracted Autism Respite Care Services ProviderRefer a ChildAutism Respite Care Services
Practical relief. Meaningful engagement. Clear coordination.
ARCS is a Georgia DHS and DFCS initiative supporting eligible children and young adults with autism and the families who care for them. Atlanta Youth Services delivers contracted ARCS services within its approved area.
Refer a Child →Program overview
What ARCS provides
Respite offers caregivers temporary relief while a child or young adult remains safe, supervised, and meaningfully engaged.
Support is individualized around strengths, routines, safety considerations, family circumstances, and the service plan.
Services
ARCS Services Provided by Atlanta Youth Services
- In-home respite care
- Caregiver relief
- Safety supervision
- Support with daily routines
- Educational games and activities
- Arts, crafts, reading, and structured recreation
- Sensory-friendly activities
- Communication and social-skill support
- Positive behavior support
- Community-based activities when appropriate
- Relationship building
- Service documentation and caregiver communication
- Overnight respite when planned and available
What ARCS is not
ARCS is not a substitute for emergency care, medical care, psychotherapy, transportation, general household labor, or intensive applied behavior analysis. It is not traditional babysitting; services are planned around the child’s and family’s needs.
The process
From referral to ongoing support
Family consultation
AYS learns about needs, strengths, routines, safety considerations, and scheduling.
Provider matching
AYS matches the family based on location, experience, availability, and fit.
Service planning
The family and team complete intake and establish expectations.
Service delivery
The provider delivers planned respite and behavioral support.
Ongoing coordination
AYS supports communication, quality, documentation, and continuity.
Funding and cost
Is There a Cost to Families?
ARCS services are funded through the Georgia Department of Human Services and DFCS.
Eligible families are not billed directly by Atlanta Youth Services for ARCS services provided through the applicable referral process. Availability, hours, duration, and continuation depend on program requirements, funding, family needs, contractual provisions, and provider capacity.
Next step