Information
Welcome to our FAQ page. At OpeningHearts, we understand you have questions, and we're here to provide clear, comprehensive answers. Our commitment to excellence and trauma-informed care guides every aspect of our service. Explore the information below to learn more about our program and how we support youth.
Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to the most important topics regarding OpeningHearts. We've compiled common questions from families and agencies to provide you with the essential details about our residential care for youth aged 11-18 in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
What are the most common questions families or agencies ask you about OpeningHearts and how it works?
Who does Opening Hearts serve?
Opening Hearts provides residential care for youth ages 11–18 who require a safe, structured, and trauma-informed living environment. We support youth involved with child welfare systems and those in need of stability, supervision, and life skills development.
What type of care does Opening Hearts provide?
We offer 24/7 residential care focused on safety, consistency, emotional support, and skill-building. Our program emphasizes trauma-informed, relationship-based care while maintaining clear structure and accountability.
Is Opening Hearts licensed?
Opening Hearts is completing the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) licensing process and operates in alignment with all state regulations and best practices for residential youth care.
How are youth referred to your program?
Youth placements are accepted through approved referral sources, including child welfare agencies and authorized partners. All referrals are reviewed to ensure the program is an appropriate fit for the youth’s needs.
What makes Opening Hearts different from other group homes?
Opening Hearts is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and structure. Our leadership includes individuals with firsthand experience in foster care and residential support, allowing us to approach care with empathy, understanding, and strong professional standards.
What kind of staff work at Opening Hearts?
Our team consists of trained, compassionate professionals with experience in youth development, residential care, and trauma-informed practices. Staff receive ongoing training and supervision to ensure consistent, high-quality care.
How do you support youth development and independence?
We support youth through daily routines, life skills training, emotional regulation, and healthy decision-making. Youth are encouraged to build confidence, accountability, and independence at a pace that meets their individual needs.
How do you ensure safety in the home?
Safety is our top priority. Opening Hearts follows clear policies, supervision standards, and crisis-prevention practices. Staff are trained in de-escalation, mandated reporting, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment at all times.
Can families or community partners contact you directly?
Yes. Families, agencies, and community partners are welcome to reach out with questions, referrals, or partnership inquiries. Administrative meetings are available by appointment. You can reach us at 570-332-3913 or Sward@Openingheartsllc.com
Where is Opening Hearts located?
Opening Hearts serves Scranton, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas, providing residential care within the local community.
What's most important for people to know about how you support and care for the youth at OpeningHearts?
At Opening Hearts, the most important thing for families and partners to know is that we care for youth as whole individuals, not just placements. Our approach is grounded in trauma-informed, relationship-based care that prioritizes safety, consistency, and emotional well-being.
We believe healing happens through trust, structure, and showing up consistently. Youth are supported through clear routines, compassionate supervision, and individualized guidance that meets them where they are while helping them grow.
Our team balances empathy with accountability, helping youth build life skills, emotional regulation, confidence, and independence in a safe, nurturing environment. Every decision we make is guided by what is in the best interest of the youth and their long-term stability and success.
What should people understand about how to refer a youth or what steps are involved in joining OpeningHearts?
Referring a youth to Opening Hearts is a collaborative and supportive process. Referrals are typically made through county agencies, caseworkers, or approved partners in accordance with Pennsylvania DHS guidelines.
Once a referral is received, our team reviews the youth’s needs, background information, and placement goals to ensure we are an appropriate fit. We prioritize placements where we can provide the safest, most supportive, and most stable environment for the youth.
If a placement moves forward, we work closely with the referring agency, family, and support team to coordinate intake, documentation, and transition planning. Our goal is to make the process smooth, transparent, and centered on the youth’s well-being.
Families and agencies are encouraged to contact us directly with questions about availability, program expectations, or referral procedures.
Are there any worries or concerns families and agencies might have, and what would you want to tell them to put their minds at ease?
Referring a youth to Opening Hearts is a collaborative and supportive process. Referrals are typically made through county agencies, caseworkers, or approved partners in accordance with Pennsylvania DHS guidelines.
Once a referral is received, our team reviews the youth’s needs, background information, and placement goals to ensure we are an appropriate fit. We prioritize placements where we can provide the safest, most supportive, and most stable environment for the youth.
If a placement moves forward, we work closely with the referring agency, family, and support team to coordinate intake, documentation, and transition planning. Our goal is to make the process smooth, transparent, and centered on the youth’s well-being.
Families and agencies are encouraged to contact us directly with questions about availability, program expectations, or referral procedures.
Partnering for youth success
At OpeningHearts, our journey is about providing a safe, structured, and compassionate environment for youth to thrive. We are dedicated to quality and great service, built on lived experience and professional standards. Join us in making a difference for youth in Scranton and surrounding areas. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.