Frequently Asked Questions
- Doesn't Happy Haven take state referrals?
Currently, we are not a state facility; we are a private agency that does not receive state referrals. In our history, we began as an orphanage and evolved into a Level 1 Residential Care Facility that took mostly state-placed children. However, our focus and purpose now is to provide services to help children and families avoid having to turn to state care.
- How do I make a referral?
Anyone can call and submit a child's name for acceptance. You will be asked to provide information for an intake sheet that will be screened by the administrator and appropriate houseparent.
We will then call you to discuss whether our services are appropriate. If they are deemed appropriate, we will start the application process.
We cannot accept every request, but we do strive to help every child with needs that match our services.
- How much does it cost if I refer a child to you?
A family/person making a referral does not have to pay a fee, but we work with parents to determine how much they can afford and ask that they provide that amount toward the expenses related to caring for the child.
Our ability to continue to serve children and to cover the costs associated with that responsibility depends on parents paying a share of the cost. However, we will not refuse to admit a child based solely on a parent's inability to pay.
- Do you receive state funds? Where does your funding come from?
Happy Haven no longer receives state funds. Area Churches of Christ provide 66 percent of our operating budget; the balance comes from individual and business donors.
Our goal is to provide services to children and families prior to custody to prevent these children from going into custody and adding cost to the state.
- What facilities are available?
We have 3 houses, an administration building, and playground/picnic area on approximately 40 acres. We are located 1 1/2 miles off of Highway 70 in Cookeville, Tennessee.