The Local Collaborative Time Study (LCTS) is an entitlement program that captures dollars from Medical Assistance (MA) and Foster Care Assistance. The State of Minnesota Department of Human Services distributes the funds  among the 90 Collaboratives in the tate.  LCTS calculation includes four variables: 1) random moments completed by LCTS participants, 2) LCTS Participant Cost Reports, 3) County MA ratios, and 4) County Foster Care ratios.  The St. Louis County Family Services Collaborative Board distributes these funds for programs that have integrated prevention and early intervention strategies that use a multi-generational approach.  

 

How does the LCTS work? Some of the staff that work in the juvenile justice system, public health or school districts perform activities that are eligible for reimbursement.  This particular time study documents time spent by staff on various work activities at randomly selected dates and times throughout the year.  At the time of the random moment, each staff person on the LCTS roster will choose an activity code to represent what best describes the activity they were performing at that date and time.

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How does LCTS generate funding?  The data collection is used to tell us the estimated total time spent on various types of activities. The codes provide a snapshot of the activities being performed by the LCTS participants.  The information is forwarded to DHS, the time study results are compiled and then they are used in the calculation of the federal claim for the local Collaborative.

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Spending Priorities:  The LCTS is a federal funding source intended to support the services provided by your local Collaborative.  Federal funds received from LCTS activities must be used to expand early intervention and prevention services for children and families. The goals of the services are:

• Prevention of out-of-home placement

• Enhancement of family support and children’s physical and mental health services

• Development of a seamless system of services

• Strengthening of local community-based collaborative efforts

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Funds are awarded via a grant application process (see details in the grants and programs tab).