FACT (Family Assistance Coalition Team)

FACT exists to identify and meet the needs of families in our community who are experiencing problems. Services can be categorized in three areas: police, school and family.

Police intervention

Generally police officers respond to a domestic dispute and ascertain that there is an ongoing relationship problem. A FACT referral is explained and parties may choose to sign an information release.

Once a release is received, the Brunswick Division of Police Communications Department reviews the report. The information is then forwarded to the appropriate community service providers (listed on the release) who can help the family.

Follow-up contact is typically made with the family within 72 hours. Information regarding the services available is provided.

A comprehensive list of member agencies is listed on this page.

School extension services

In 1988, the Brunswick Division of Police began placing officers in the schools to help minimize issues such as truancy, bullying, fighting and drug/alcohol use. Officers from Brunswick Hills also provide services in various schools throughout the district since 1988.

In 1994, FACT began to place mental health professionals in the Brunswick School District. Known as FACT staff, they work with students referred by school administration to the counselor. Issues they work with can include anger management, depression, grief, family difficulties, healthy relationships or any other area that my interfere with a student’s ability to succeed in school.

In 2019, with changes that were made to the MCDAC funding stream, this program became self-sufficient. Ohio Guidestone became our primary partner to place counselors in the schools through funding awarded by the Medina County ADAMH Board (Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health).

Family support services

In 2001, the FACT Committee identified a need for families to have a safe and free place to exchange children and find support. Families needed somewhere other than the police department to take their children. Free services available through this program include:

• safe place for exchanges
• monitored exchanges and supervised visitation
• individual support and family sessions
• support groups and educational workshops
• child custody & child support groups

Partners in the FACT Visitation Program include:

• Brunswick Division of Police
• Oaks Family Care Center
• Brunswick Rec Center
• Kids Town Preschool