SAFY Comments on Historical Child Welfare Package
Delphos, OH - Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth of America, Inc. (SAFY) expresses our strong support for the recent announcement by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the historic child welfare package aimed at bolstering support, equity, and protection within the child welfare system.
SAFY strongly endorses the three pivotal rules set forth by the HHS, which focus on supporting kinship caregivers, protecting LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care, and broadening access to legal representation for youth and families within the child welfare system. These rules represent a substantial advancement towards accomplishing the Administration's goal of prioritizing youth well-being and promoting equity within the child welfare system.
Firstly, we commend and endorse the rule encouraging and aiding kin caregivers in becoming licensed or approved foster caregivers. The new rule allowing simpler licensing or approval standards for kin foster family homes, alongside ensuring equitable financial assistance, will alleviate the burdens faced by kinship caregivers and expedite essential services for the youth in their care. We preserve and strengthen family bonds and cultural identities by promoting kinship care. Maintaining strong cultural identities will help support improved self-esteem and coping abilities, decreased depression, higher levels of educational attainment, and overall well-being for youth in the child welfare system (Child Welfare Information Gateway, 2022).
Additionally, the proposed rule aimed at safeguarding LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care is an essential stride towards inclusivity and acceptance in child welfare. LGBTQIA+ youth are overrepresented in the child welfare system and are among the highest youth fatalities to suicide (Baams, L., Wilson, B., Russell, S. T. (2019). LGBTQ Youth in Unstable Housing and Foster Care. Pediatrics, 143 (3): e20174211. 10.1542/peds.2017-4211; Johns, M. M., Lowry, R., Haderxhanaj, L. T., et al. (2020). Trends in violence victimization and suicide risk by sexual identity among high school students — Youth Risk Behavior Survey, United States, 2015–2019. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 69, (Suppl-1):19–27.) By emphasizing the creation of safe and affirming placements for LGBTQIA+ youth and ensuring proper training for caregivers to meet their unique needs, we are taking a vital step forward in reducing disparities and promoting a more inclusive, safe, and supportive environment for youth in the child welfare system.
Lastly, we affirm the proposed rule to expand access to legal representation for youth and families involved in the child welfare system, a fundamental and crucial move toward more equitable service and care for youth and families. Providing legal support during civil proceedings can ensure the safety, stability, and preservation of families, contributing to the well-being and rights of youth and families.
We applaud the Department of Health and Human Services for its dedication to improving the child welfare system by addressing the distinctive needs of kinship caregivers, LGBTQIA+ youth, and families through this groundbreaking child welfare package. These rules reflect a dedication to improving the child welfare system, aligning seamlessly with our vision to create thriving families and communities where every individual, regardless of background or circumstance, can reach their full potential. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact these rules will have on the lives of youth and families.
About SAFY – Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth of America, Inc. operates as the managing services organization for SAFY organizations in seven states, including Alabama, Colorado, Indiana, Kentucky, Nevada, Ohio, and South Carolina. With nearly four decades of experience in child welfare and a deep-rooted mission of Preserving Families and Securing Futures, SAFY remains dedicated to aiding youth and families in navigating the challenging storms they face. Our model of care includes behavioral health, family supportive services, and, when needed, foster care. This solid structure offers the tools to develop and maintain stable mental, physical, and emotional foundations to weather the storms where they are – home, school, work, or community.
