Dear Edgewood Supporters,
As recently reported in an article published by the San Francisco Chronicle, charges of abuse of clients were filed against two former Edgewood staff earlier in 2019. Below is some background information on these incidents and our response to ensure the safety of youth we serve.
Both former employees passed the state’s background check and the Department of Justice monitoring service. As soon as we were made aware of the allegations, they were immediately put on leave and we terminated their employment. San Francisco County, which includes The Human Services Agency and The Department of Public Health, has placed a hold on referrals to our services on the Vicente Street campus in San Francisco. This means that about 30 children have been redirected to other crisis services, including a psychiatric hospital and facilities outside of the county and away from the youth’s local support network.
As reported in the article, Edgewood has fully cooperated with law enforcement and all partner agencies in the investigation and we will continue to do so. Upon learning of these allegations, we immediately created and executed a plan to strengthen the safety and security for our clients. Edgewood remains committed to providing an environment that is safe, reliable and compassionate.
Edgewood’s priority continues to be to provide an environment of care that promotes the health, well-being and healing that children and families need. Please support children, youth and families by advocating for our services and staff who are distinctly qualified and committed to deliver the highest quality of services to children in need. We are deeply concerned about youth who are not able to receive our services at present.
In addition to our commitment to providing youth and families a safe and reliable environment, we value transparency and open communication. If you have any questions, please reach out to me directly.
I wish you and your family a healthy and happy holiday season,
Lynn Dolce, MFT
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Chief Executive Officer
Edgewood Center for Children and Families
Direct: 415.682.3220 Cell: 415.725.0662 Main: 415.681.3211
lynnd@edgewood.org
