December 2016 Sad Stories Part 1
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KARA tracks current news about at risk children bringing transparency and attention to our youngest and most vulnerable citizens. Please note that what you see here is only a sampling of what should be reported – the great majority of child trauma & abuse never gets reported.
ALL ADULTS ARE THE PROTECTORS OF ALL CHILDREN
Compilation of information and writing on this page is the hard work of David Vang, Mike Toronto, Jamar Weston, Adolf Nchanj and Blaz Zlate, Callie Benscoter, (student volunteers at Century College) Katie Frake, Boston College, Julie O, and KARA.
| FBCSO: Investigation into child’s death won’t be reopenedKHOU.comRICHMOND, TEXAS – The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office has decided not to reopen the investigation into the 2011 death of a child whose adoptive …Deputy had checked in April on couple now facing child abuse charges – Houston ChronicleSpecial-needs teens rescued from Texas ‘house of horrors’ had eighth sibling who died – Daily MailFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Trial delayed for man charged in child’s deathCharleston Gazette-Mail (subscription)The trial for Jarrel Stricklen was set to begin Monday, but Kanawha Circuit Judge Charles King said he would have to set a new date for the trial, after … Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Latest: Special Needs Child, 7, Died at Texas HomeABC NewsTexas officials say a 7-year-old child died in the same Houston-area home where seven special-needs teenagers were locked away in a closet by … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Murder conviction for Delco mom in child death6abc.comLittle Mason Hunt died Feb. 3, 2015 after District Attorney Jack Whelan says the boy was “terrorized” and beaten the last two days he lived. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Authorities investigate child death in SDKFGODELL RAPIDS, S.D. (AP) – Authorities are investigating the suspicious death of a child in southeastern South Dakota. The Minnehaha County Sheriff’s …Man charged in child’s death near Sioux Falls – KFGOAuthorities investigate child death in South Dakota – The Daily Progressdetails of Dell Rapids child death – KELO AM-FMFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| 2 found dead in Faribault ruled murder-suicideKAREOfficers forced their way into the home and found a man dead on the floor. During the search of the home, officers also found the body of a child as …Man, Child Found Dead In Faribault, Minnesota Home With Firearm At Scene – Investigation … – The InquisitrPolice Investigate Deaths of Adult, Child in Faribault – KSTP.comPolice: Man, Child Found Dead Inside Faribault Residence – CBS LocalFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mom Who Rolled Onto Baby While High Pleads Guilty In Child’s DeathCBS LocalMAYSLANDING, N.J. (CBS), A Ventnor mother has pleaded guilty to aggravated manslaughter after authorities say she rolled onto her baby while … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Unlicensed North St. Paul Day Care Provider Charged In Child’s DeathCBS LocalMINNEAPOLIS (WCCO), A day care provider is facing second-degree murder charges after admitting to police she didn’t have a license when a … Flag as irrelevant | |
| McNeil pleads guilty in child’s deathThe Wilson Times (subscription)A Wilson man will spend more than two decades behind bars after pleading guilty this week to killing a 1-year-old boy by cracking his skull in early … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Parents, West Jordan day care settle after child’s deathKUTV 2News(KUTV) Parents of little Leo Sanchez and the West Jordan Child Center have reached a confidential agreement surrounding the death of 1-year-old … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| The Latest: Special needs child, 7, died at Texas homeCrossroads TodayTexas officials say a 7-year-old child died in the same Houston-area home where seven special-needs teenagers were locked away in a closet by … Flag as irrelevant | |
| UPDATE: details of Dell Rapids child deathKWSN.comSIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO-AM) The 18-month-old boy found dead at a home in Dell Rapids on Thursday had been hit on the head six times until his … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Terminally ill child dies in Santa’s armsMSN.comA 60-year-old Tennessee man who spends time volunteering as Santa Claus at a local hospital recently granted a 5-year-old terminally ill boy his final … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Flint parents facing multiple charges in their child’s deathWSMHTwo parents have been charged with killing their own child.Investigators have been combing through a wooded area near a Flint apartment complex … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Alberta human services minister must go over foul-up in child deathMyMcMurrayEDMONTON – Alberta’s opposition parties are demanding Human Services Minister Irfan Sabir lose his job for what they say is incompetence in the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| A child died in government forces shelling on Taftanaz city in Idlib governorate, December 6Syrian Network For Human RightsThe child Abdul Rahman Rodwan Tahhan died on December 7 due to wounds sustained in government warplanes missiles fired on Taftanaz city in … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Children killed by family violence let down by Victoria’s child protection system, report findsMSN.comChildren who have died after instances of family violence in Victoria have been let down by child protection and have been victims of systemic service … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Unlicensed MN day care provider charged in child’s deathY94MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A day care provider is facing second-degree murder charges after admitting to police she didn’t have a license when a baby … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Special needs child, 7, died at Texas homeKOSATiffani Butler, a spokeswoman for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, said Tuesday that the child died in January 2011 at the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| UPDATE: Stepfather charged in death of child in Dell RapidsWatertown RadioDELL RAPIDS, S.D. (AP) – Sheriff’s officials say the stepfather of an 18-month-old boy has been arrested and charged in the child’s death in … Flag as irrelevant |
| A Child’s Death Does Not Become UsHuffington PostEach year, we list those who have died from anaphylaxis and have a sober moment of silence. We were about to add another child to the list. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Chattanooga bus crash: 6 children dead; Titans to help victims’ familiesCNNChattanooga, Tennessee (CNN) While the rest of the country gives thanks Thursday, six Chattanooga families are grieving the absence of a child from …The Latest: 6th Child Dies Following Chattanooga Bus Crash – ABC NewsPolice: 6th child dies following Chattanooga bus crash – 6abc.comNo drugs, alcohol found in driver in Tennessee school bus crash, death toll hits six – Business InsiderFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| 3 adults, 1 child found shot to death inside Alaska hotel roomNew York Daily NewsA young couple and their 8-week-old baby were killed inside an Alaska hotel room Friday afternoon, and police are investigating the “horrific” … Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Opinion Pages|What Castro’s Death Means for a Child of MarielNew York TimesTo me Cuba was a collection of my parents’ memories. Tobacco farms, childhood homes, a large extended family which included my older half sister; …A child of Cuban exiles on Fidel Castro’s death – FusionBridgeport police chief reflects on childhood in Cuba, Fidel Castro’s death – FOX 61Full Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| CPS worker says colleagues not to blame for child’s deathFox 2 Detroit“Instead of Kym Worthy going after CPS workers, she needs to check her list of people we have substantiated for abuse neglect, rape, child death and … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby Dies of Vicks VapoRub Poisoning? : snopes.comsnopes.comA viral Facebook post claimed that a baby died in his sleep after his mother applied Vicks VapoRub to soothe his fever, but we found no evidence the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mom’s boyfriend questioned by police in death of 7-week-oldKHOU.comA person of interest, 27 year old Antoine Allen Gorman, is being questioned by police in the death of a 7 week old boy. Gorman was arrested on Friday …Person of interest taken into custody in connection with death… – KPRC HoustonFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Citrus Heights mom, boyfriend arrested in child’s deathKCRA SacramentoA Citrus Heights mother and her live-in boyfriend were arrested more than a month after her 2-year-old son died inside a home, police said Thursday. Flag as irrelevant | |
| CHILD DEATH INVESTIGATIONMyWabashValleyIllinois State Police report they are investigating the death of a young girl in Olney as a homicide. Officials say Wednesday evening local police …IL State Police Investigating Child Death in Olney – Newton Press MentorISP investigating death of Olney child – Alton Telegraph8-year-old Southern Illinois girl found dead – Belleville News-DemocratFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Lawsuit accuses Newport News workers of negligence in 2013 child’s deathDaily PressCarl Michael Cottee Jr., now 26, is charged with first-degree murder and child abuse in the May 2013 death of Madyson Van Cleave-Hook, who died … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Ankeny Man Charged with Murder in Child’s DeathWHO Radio – iHeartRadioANKENY, Iowa – An Ankeny man is facing a murder charge after the death of a child. The Polk County Sheriff’s office said 29-year-old Michael Lourens … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Arrest Made In Olney Child Death Investigation100.7 MIX-FMArrest Made In Olney Child Death Investigation. Sunday, November 27, 2016 9:48 a.m. EST. Glen R. Ramey. Olney, Ill (WIBQ) – Just after 2 a.m. … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mom Charged in Child’s Death Heads to TrialWIXX.comAPPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – The woman charged in connection with the 2015 death of her child will stand trial. According to court records, Keshia … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Trial Continued in Norfolk Child Death CaseUS92Trial Continued in Norfolk Child Death Case. Carla Montoya. MADISON – A woman facing felony charges in the death of her four-year old daughter … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Illinois officials review child’s death at Chicago day careWSPLCHICAGO (AP), State officials are investigating the death of a 1-year-old boy at a north side Chicago home daycare. Off. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child killed, many other wounded in Russian airstrike on Huraytan, AleppoMap of Syrian Civil war/ Global conflict in Syria – liveuamap.comChild killed, many other wounded in Russian airstrike on Huraytan, Aleppo … Russia airstrike on food Market in E. Aleppo, 15 reportedly dead. Syria … Flag as irrelevant |
CA: Can marijuana break up a family? Parents face custody issues over legal cannabis use
Orange County Register – December 13, 2016
Along with legalizing recreational marijuana, Proposition 64 adds some protections for medical marijuana patients. Among them: California courts can no longer rescind or restrict a parent’s custodial rights solely because they have recommendations for medical marijuana.
Also: Parents facing custody issues over marijuana see hope in Prop. 64: Parents facing custody issues over marijuana see hope in prop 64 (dailydemocrat.com)
HI: For Oahu’s unaccompanied homeless youth, help is hard to find (Includes video)
Hawaii News Now – December 13, 2016
According to the latest point-in-time count, there are 168 unaccompanied homeless youth statewide. Experts believe the number is actually closer to 1,000. And for many of them, help is hard to find.
MS: Protecting Refugee Children
Jackson Free Press – December 14, 2016
The Mississippi program was one of several programs established in the 1980s to address the needs of thousands of children in southeast Asia, primarily Vietnam at the time. It is one of 19 programs nationally that resettle refugee minors in the U.S. The federal Office of Refugee Resettlement funnels funds to states with unaccompanied minor refugee programs.
MS: Caretakers face hurdles to provide homes for related children (Includes video)
WLOX – December 13, 2016
Child Protective Services has many policies in place with the primary goal of protecting children. However, Jennifer Adkison, who’s temporarily caring for her sister’s child, thinks some of those policies are an overreach.
NE: Two bid to manage child welfare cases in Douglas, Sarpy
Omaha World-Herald – December 14, 2016
The state on Tuesday opened bids from Magellan Choices for Families LLC and Nebraska Families Collaborative.
NY: Damning Report on Zymere Perkins Case Details Months of Abuse, Missed Opportunities (Includes video)
NBC New York – December 14, 2016
The city’s child welfare agency, the Administration for Children’s Services, has come under fire in a state report that has censured its handling of the case of a Harlem boy who was beaten to death.
Also: New report faults ACS in death of Zymere Perkins: New report faults acs in death of zymere perkins (pix11.com)
Also: City and state release separate reports on death of Zymere Perkins: City and state release separate reports on child abuse death of six year old harlem boy… (politico.com)
Also: NY OCFS Child Fatality Report: politico.com
Also: NYC ACS Report: politico.com
NY: State Orders Monitor for New York City’s Child Welfare Agency
New York Times – December 13, 2016
The state has ordered New York City to install an independent monitor to review the city’s troubled child welfare agency, the latest fallout from the recent deaths of children who had been the subjects of abuse reports to the agency.
Also: State Orders City to Appoint a Monitor to Oversee Child Welfare: State orders city appoint monitor oversee child welfare (wnyc.org)
WA: A much-needed new approach for state’s foster-care system (Opinion)
Seattle Times – December 13, 2016
With the heightened focus, accountability and transparency this structure would allow, this new state agency will be a far more attractive and effective partner to attract private-sector involvement. Through the strength of innovation and public-private alignment, there is no reason our state can’t be a model to the nation of strong and effective public-private partnerships.
WI: Study: Repeal of Affordable Care Act Would Hit Wisconsin Hard (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 14, 2016
Spurred by campaign promises made by President-Elect Donald Trump, Republican leaders in Congress are demanding a speedy repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Advocates for Children and Families are asking that legislators slow down and develop a complete replacement plan first.
Report: Implications of Partial Repeal of the ACA through Reconciliation: Implications partial repeal aca through reconciliation (urban.org)
WI: Project would include apartments for former foster care youth
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – December 13, 2016
The proposed project would set aside up to 15 of its 40 apartments for youth who have turned 18 and have “aged out” of the foster care system.
US: UNL grant will study retention rates for child welfare workers
Lincoln Journal Star – December 14, 2016
Michelle Graef, a research associate professor at UNL’s Center on Children, Families and the Law will lead a five-year effort funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration and the Children’s Bureau to study ways to improve retention.
US: ‘Talia’s Law’ aimed at protecting children on military bases
Hawaii News Now – December 13, 2016
After Congressional approval earlier this week, the president is expected to sign “Talia’s Law,” which will require military officials to report all child abuse to state authorities.
US: McMartin: Child Welfare’s Prelude to #Pizzagate
Chronicle of Social Change – December 13, 2016
The 2016 election campaign and its aftermath have been awash in fake news stories created by everyone from right-wing extremists to clickbait entrepreneurs. But we seem especially vulnerable when purveyors of fake news add two magic words: child abuse.
US: Study Raises Concern of Significant Under-Reporting of Child Abuse Within U.S. Army (Press release)
PR Newswire – December 13, 2016
Only 20 percent of medically diagnosed child abuse and neglect cases in U.S. Army dependent children between 2004 and 2007 were found to have a substantiated report with the Army’s Family Advocacy Program (FAP) – the agency responsible for the investigation and treatment of child abuse – according to a new PolicyLab study.
US: The Alarming Rise Of Children In Foster Care
Huffington Post – December 13, 2016
For many years, there had been a decrease in the number of children being placed into the foster care system in the United States of America. Yet, for the past three years, there has been just the opposite; there has been a national increase in the number of children being placed into foster care.
US: The New Strategy for Raising Money for Kids: Just Ask Voters
Governing – December 13, 2016
Amid Donald Trump’s largely unexpected victory on Election Day, it was easy to miss an emerging trend in local elections: In about a dozen communities around the country, voters approved tax hikes for children’s services and measures that will keep policymakers from dipping into those funds for other purposes.
US: Top Five Threats to Child Welfare from ACA Repeal (Opinion)
CLASP – December 13, 2016
Proposals by the Congress and President-elect to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA)-including the Medicaid expansion-to turn Medicaid into a block grant, and to cut resources, all can sound very abstract to social workers and policymakers coping with the day-to-day tragedies and crises of child welfare. But should Congress make good on any of these threats-which could happen as early as January 2017-the dangers are very real to abused and neglected children, their birth, adoptive, and foster parents, as well as state agencies and providers.
US: UMD Leads American Indian Child Welfare Act Project (Press release)
Business North – December 13, 2016
UMD’s Department of Social Work has received a significant federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to create a better delivery system for the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), a federal law that seeks to keep American Indian children with American Indian families.
US: Obamacare’s Demise Could Be Quicker Than Republicans Intend (Includes audio)
National Public Radio – December 12, 2016
An estimated 20 million people have obtained health insurance over the last three years via provisions in the Affordable Care Act. Some get coverage through the insurance exchanges, but millions are covered because of the expansion of Medicaid in most states, and because the law allows young adults to stay on their parents’ insurance policies up to age 26.
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: New legislation misses key commitments critical to fixing Child Protection Services and settling labour unrest (Press release)
Market Wired – December 13, 2016
On the brink of yet another potential strike or lockout in Children’s Aid over workload issues, the Wynne government has introduced legislative changes to child protection services that ignore key commitments critical to addressing the problems that put kids at risk of falling through the cracks, says Fred Hahn, President of CUPE Ontario.
| Boy, 3, dies after allegedly being beaten by mother’s boyfriendNew York Daily NewsA battered, helpless 3-year-old Brooklyn boy has died from injuries he … of his mother’s abusive boyfriend days after he was beaten into a coma and …Boy, 3, severely beaten in Gravesend, Brooklyn dies; mother’s boyfriend charged – WLS-TVJaden Jordan, Brooklyn boy found beaten, dies at hospital, NYPD says – amNYSeverely beaten Brooklyn boy, 3, dies after days in a coma – New York’s PIX11 / WPIX-TVFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Man charged with beating boy, 3, allegedly threatened sisterNew York Daily NewsSalvatore Lucchesse, who is accused of beating a 3-year-old Jaden into a coma, allegedly threatened his sister with jagged glass last year.Biological father of Brooklyn boy on life support after beating speaks out – WABC-TVCase to be investigated after Brooklyn toddler Jayden Jordan found badly beaten – WABC-TV‘What Did They Do?’ Officials Question ACS Response in Jaden Jordan Case – DNAinfoFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child beating case lingers in circuit courtHuntington Herald DispatchIndictments accuse Miles and Jones of beating Jayden with a belt and cord across his back, legs and buttocks, burning him and neglecting necessary … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Charges: Milwaukee boy was starved, burned, beatenMilwaukee Journal SentinelIf it had been up to Mary Martinez, the woman accused of violently beating the boy, he would be somewhere in the woods, abandoned and left for … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Spotting and reporting child abuseFox5NYBrooklyn Borough President Eric Adams has launched Operation C.A.R.E. (Child Abuse Response and Engagement) in response to the latest child …After horrific beating of Jaden Jordan, Brooklyn BP Adams launches program to combat child abuse – Brooklyn Daily EagleFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Key gets 45 years in child beating deathSmithvillereviewCody Ryan Key, 24, pled guilty to second-degree murder under a negotiated settlement in Putnam County Criminal Court today (Thursday) in the May … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Man arrested in beating of young son, child’s motherThe Detroit NewsPolice arrested a 31-year-old man Friday accused of beating and strangling his 3-year-old son and the child’s mother to the point of unconsciousness …Detroit police catch man wanted for beating mother of child, 3-year-old son – Fox 2 DetroitDetroit police arrest man wanted for beating, strangling woman… – WDIV DetroitFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Alabama man gets 25 years for ‘child torture’The News HeraldThe case was one of the most extreme instances aggravated child abuse in Bay County in recent history, and it led to reforms in Alabama’s child … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mother of fatally beaten 7-year-old will go to trial on child abuse and kidnapping chargesNews3LVThursday, a judge decided that she will go to trial for child abuse and kidnapping charges linked to the death of her son, despite her attorney’s attempt … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Shocker: Assistant Teacher Attacks 7-Year-Old Baltimore Boy; Fractures Jaw, Knocks Out TeethPJ MediaTimothy Randall Korr, 25, has been charged with felony first- and second-degree child abuse, felony first- and misdemeanor second-degree assault, …Baltimore teacher beats 7-year-old boy and breaks his jaw, knocks out teeth – Rolling OutFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| ACS took 3 days find address of boy, 3, who was beat into comaNew York Daily NewsChild welfare investigators chasing a tip about a battered Brooklyn boy needed three days to find the right address, finally locating it on the same …Boyfriend Charged After 3-Year-Old Child Found With Fractured Skull – NBC New YorkCity Investigating Children’s Services After 3-Year-Old Boy’s Beating – DNAinfoJayden Jordan: Brooklyn Toddler, 3, Fighting For Life Following Months Of Alleged Torture And … – The InquisitrFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Activist questions police’s role in Navi Mumbai child beating caseDaily News & Analysis… Section 75 clearly says a child who is in the custody or supervision of a caretaker in an organisation if he assaults the child and beats the child then …10-Month-Old Thrashed By Caretaker In Creche In Navi Mumbai’s Kharghar, Video Goes Viral – NDTVHorrific Footage Shows A Playschool Caretaker Mercilessly Beating A 10-Month-Old Baby! – Indiatimes.comVIDEO: Mumbai daycare staffer arrested for beating 10-month-old – The Indian ExpressFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baltimore school tutor charged with child abuse in Trayvon Grayson beatingMicAuthorities have charged a Baltimore school tutor with multiple counts of felony child abuse after allegedly breaking 7-year-old Trayvon Grayson’s jaw … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Wilkinsburg woman gets state prison for beating her childPittsburgh Post-GazetteA Wilkinsburg woman found guilty of beating her 11-month-old son and leaving him out on her back porch will serve 7½ to 15 years in prison. A jury in …Woman to serve up to 15 years for severely beating 11-month-old son – WPXI PittsburghFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| 3-Year-Old Boy On Life Support After Fracturing Skull, Mother’s Boyfriend ArrestedGothamistThe boy was reportedly found “covered in feces” and Lucchese allegedly … Perkins’s stepfather was arrested for fatally beating the boy, and it turned … Flag as irrelevant | |
| MAN & CHILD: Beating babyTrinidad GuardianThe baby couldn’t have been more than three weeks old. It lay on the dark-brown sofa crying, and the woman in white pants leaned over it and said, … Flag as irrelevant | |
| LCSO: Baby ‘violently beaten‘ dies; babysitter arrestedThe News-PressA babysitter has been charged with second-degree murder for allegedly beating an 8-month old child, deputies said Thursday. The baby, Julian …Lee Co. man accused in baby’s beating death a ‘flight risk’ – NBC2 NewsBond set for man charged in baby’s Thanksgiving Day death – The News-PressInfant found dead in Fort Myers home, babysitter arrested – NBC2 NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Trial of mother accused of child abuse opens in DerryIrish TimesThe 64-year-old woman on trial denies allegations of child sexual and physical abuse and of child cruelty against three of her children over a 10-year … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mother in court charged with beating daughter for being gayFox 2 Detroit(WJBK) – A Detroit mother is charged with child abuse accused of attacking her 15-year-old daughter. Investigators say the girl was beaten because of … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Deputies: Father, delivering child support, instead beats woman after crawling through restaurant …The AdvocateA Baton Rouge man crawled through the drive-thru window of a McDonald’s early Monday and beat the mother of his child inside the restaurant … Flag as irrelevant |
AL: Boys Ranch revitalization: Renamed the Ranch, it will serve foster families
Decatur Daily – December 12, 2016
After sitting vacant for six years, the Alabama Sheriff’s Association Boys Ranch in Morgan County is undergoing a restoration that will return the 40-acre facility to its original purpose of serving children. Husband and wife team Clint and Ahbra Northcutt signed a contract to renovate the facility in Danville in November. They renamed the site The Ranch and plan on using the site for emergency and respite care for girls and boys in foster care and as a retreat center for foster parents.
AZ: Yavapai County faces shortage of foster homes
Daily Courier – December 12, 2016
In Arizona, the number of kids in foster care has been rising steadily for six years. In March, the latest month for which numbers are available, there were 6,457 children in foster homes in the state. The state Department of Child Safety also places at-risk kids with relatives or family friends, and there were 8,506 kids in that category in March.
CA: Homeless U: How students study and survive on the streets
KPCC – December 12, 2016
Like many undergraduates, homeless college students are young, ambitious and wracked by insecurities about their identities and futures. But their specific insecurity is chronic and exhausting: They live in cars, couch surf and sneak into campus buildings to spend the night. Unfortunately, these experiences are more common than many ever suspected.
Information Gateway Resource: Services for Youth: Homeless and Runaway: Homeless runaway (childwelfare.gov)
IL: From the community: Aunt Martha’s Receives $75k Donation from Mattress Firm to Support Foster Kids
Chicago Tribune – December 12, 2016
Today, Aunt Martha’s received a helping hand from mattress retailer Mattress Firm and the Ticket to Dream Foundation with a $75,000 donation. Aunt Martha’s is a private, not-for-profit agency providing coordinated health care and social services for family members of all ages in underserved communities across Illinois. The agency serves more than 50,000 children and adults annually. It is state-licensed to provide child welfare, substance abuse treatment and child care services, and has been continuously accredited by The Joint Commission since 1997.
IN: More foster parents needed urgently across Indiana
Batesville Herald-Tribune – December 12, 2016
According to Michelle Smoot, IDCS regional foster care specialist supervisor over six counties, including Ripley, “We get requests from all 92 counties on a daily basis” from caseworkers hunting for homes for children, “usually a teenager or sibling groups.”
KY: Report: Ky Kids dying amid drug, funding crisis (Includes video)
Courier Journal – December 13, 2016
An outside panel has concluded that an epidemic of drug abuse and the acute underfunding of state social services are urgent problems facing Kentucky as a rising number of children die or suffer serious injury because of abuse or neglect.
MN: Improvements to state’s child protection system making a difference (Includes audio)
KLGR – December 12, 2016
Improvements to the state’s child protection system seem to be making a difference in getting kids out of abusive homes. Minnesota has “screened-in” more than 7,200 additional child protection cases in the first two quarters of 2016 compared to the same period two years ago.
NC: Child Fatality Prevention Group Hits Milestone
North Carolina Health News – December 13, 2016
Twenty-five years ago, North Carolina had the worst infant mortality rate in the country, and deaths to children under the age of 17 was at a high. There were a series of newspaper articles claiming that North Carolina was missing cases of child abuse that lead to dozens, perhaps hundreds of deaths.
NJ: Judge orders newspaper to stop publishing articles
State House Bureau – December 12, 2016
A New Jersey judge has ordered the Trentonian newspaper to stop publishing articles about a child abuse case – a ruling that First Amendment experts said could violate the U.S. Supreme Court’s most important decisions guaranteeing the freedom of the press.
NY: ACS head Gladys Carrión steps down; was in charge of child welfare agency during Zymere Perkins’ death
New York Daily News – December 12, 2016
Mayor de Blasio’s top child welfare official resigned Monday in the wake of two high-profile beating deaths of boys in the city – the younger one just 3 years old.
Also: Head of NYC’s embattled children’s services agency resigns: metro.us
Also: Editorials The kids are waiting for forceful ACS leadership: Kids waiting forceful acs leadership article 1.2908355 (nydailynews.com)
OH: First Federal Pay it Forward Program delivers a lot of holiday help (Includes video)
13abc Action News – December 13, 2016
Children’s Lantern received one of those checks.The organization has been part of Defiance for the last five years, helping with everything from adoption and foster care issues to human trafficking.
OK: DHS to use agency attorneys to speed up adoptions
Norman Transcript – December 12, 2016
The Department of Human Services announced today a new initiative to more quickly and efficiently finalize adoptions for children in foster care who are legally-free. The DHS Legal Services division has created an Adoption Unit whose sole function is to assist prospective adoptive parents as they manage and finalize the adoption process for children in state custody.
Also: Oklahoma DHS announces initiative to speed up adoptions: newsok.com
WI: State Representatives host homeless summit (Includes video)
WAOW – December 13, 2016
Topics ranged from how foster children can get higher education to helping homeless students in Central Wisconsin.
US: How Investing In Preschool Beats The Stock Market, Hands Down (Opinion)
National Public Radio – December 12, 2016
There’s a growing body of research on the value and importance of high-quality early education programs – especially for disadvantaged kids. But there’s surprisingly little research on its impact over time. This paper helps change that. Heckman and his co-authors examine the many ways in which these high-quality programs helped participants thrive throughout life.
Report: Lifecycle benefits influential early childhood program (heckmanequation.org)
Also: Preschool brings bigger than expected economic returns, economists say: Economists say preschool brings bigger than expect (scpr.org)
US: Infants Dependent on Opioids Rising Faster in Rural Areas, Study Finds
ABC News – December 12, 2016
The numbers of infants born affected by opioids is rising, especially in rural areas, according to a new study published today in the medical journal JAMA Pediatrics.
Report: jamanetwork.com
US: Juvenile detention centers struggle with transgender inmates
Associated Press – December 12, 2016
Young transgender people are too often sent to girls’ or boys’ lockups based on their anatomy, not their gender identity, and can end up suffering psychologically and getting picked on by other inmates or staff members, according to advocacy groups. Even when they are assigned to detention centers that correspond to their gender identity, they are often victimized.
US: New ICWA Rules Go Into Effect For Native American Foster Care, Adoption Proceedings
KJZZ and Associated Press – December 12, 2016
Family court judges will now be required to ask whether a child is Native American as part of all foster care and adoption proceedings. That’s one of several new regulations family courts will have to follow under the Indian Child Welfare Act.
Information Gateway resource: Tribal Court Considerations: Tribalcourt (childwelfare.gov)
US: Part One: Smart Solutions For Vulnerable Families Start With Context
Huffington Post – December 12, 2016
If the goal of child welfare is to keep children safe, Shafir’s research suggests anger management classes might do more harm than good. Instead, helping parents change their situation is the smarter solution. Increasing parents’ financial support, for example, or creating community centers with easy access to social services and providing a chance for neighbors to support one another.
US: Substance Abuse Not Only Factor in Growing Foster Care Numbers
Chronicle of Social Change – December 12, 2016
In its press release announcing the new data, ACF reported that parental substance abuse may have contributed to the growth in the foster care population. The percentage of removals where parental substance abuse was cited as a contributing factor increased by 13 percentage points between 2012 and 2015. However, changes in policy and practice may also have contributed to increasing foster care entries in at least three states.
Also: Number of children in foster care increases for the third consecutive year (Press release): 2016 number of children in foster care increases for the third consecutive year (acf.hhs.gov)
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Derek Nepinak to address damaging delays of child protection hearings
CBC News – December 12, 2016
The grand chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs will have a say in how court delays in child protection hearings hurt First Nations families. Derek Nepinak has been granted intervener status in an upcoming Court of Appeal case by the province’s Child and Family Services agency (CFS).
United Kingdom: Cut funding for orphanages to stop sex abuse, says J.K. Rowling’s charity
Thomson Reuters Foundation – December 12, 2016
Orphanages around the world often operate as centres for child trafficking and sexual abuse, and donors such as Britain, the United States and the European Union must cut funding to them, said a charity founded by Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.
United Kingdom: Racist abuse derails Facebook campaign to foster child refugees
RT – December 12, 2016
The Facebook campaign, run by Leicestershire County Council in October and November, was ended abruptly because of bigoted trolling by members of the public, according to the Leicester Mercury.
| Will disgust at football child abuse be followed by more denial?The GuardianMore than a quarter of Britain’s police forces are now investigating the sexual abuse of children in 55 football clubs, after one man, Andy Woodward, …Football is listening on child abuse but took far too long to do so – The GuardianStop calling the football child sex abuse scandal ‘bigger than Savile’ – Telegraph.co.ukFootball abuse: from one lone voice to a national scandal – The GuardianFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Southampton contact police over historical child abuse claimsThe IndependentSouthampton Football Club has contacted police after receiving information in relation to historical child abuse. The club said it will work with …Southampton contact Hampshire Police regarding historical child abuse within football – Mirror.co.ukSouthampton coach sacked over child abuse allegations is still working in football – Telegraph.co.ukSouthampton fc contacts police over historical child abuse probe – Daily MailFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Edward Heath child abuse investigation ‘not a witch-hunt’The GuardianThe chief constable of the force investigating claims that Sir Edward Heath sexually abused children has vowed not to buckle under “unacceptable” …Findings of Sir Edward Heath sex abuse investigation ‘may never be made public’ – Telegraph.co.ukEdward Heath abuse claims: Police defend investigation – BBC News‘It’s not a witch hunt’, police chief defends inquiry into child abuse allegations against ex-PM Sir Ted … – ITV NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Britain shocked by growing soccer child abuse scandalReutersBury’s Andy Woodward plays in a league cup match against Manchester United’s at Old Trafford in Manchester, Britain in this file picture taken October …350 report child sexual abuse within football as Gareth Southgate reveals he was teammate of victim – The Independent860 calls taken in first week of inquiry into child sex abuse in English soccer – WCVB BostonChild sex abuse allegations widen against British soccer clubs – Washington PostFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| CWC, Unicef bare results of national study on child abuseInquirer.netAs a first step to finally eradicate the country’s alarming child–abuse cases, the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) released the results of its first …David Beckham will highlight child abuse with his TATTOOS in new campaign for Unicef – Mirror.co.ukDavid Beckham’s Tattoos Come to Life in This Haunting Child Abuse PSA for Unicef – AdweekWatch: David Beckham bares his body art to raise awareness about child abuse in UNICEF video – FirstpostFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Hundreds report football child abuse to policeBBC NewsAbout 350 victims have reported child sexual abuse within UK football clubs, police chiefs have said. The National Police Chiefs’ Council said a …Football sex abuse: England captains make child safety film – BBC NewsFootball child sex abuse: 350 victims come forward, police chiefs reveal – Telegraph.co.ukPolice say 350 people have come forward to report child sex abuse in football – The GuardianFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Chelsea launch child abuse investigationWorld Soccer“The FA has commissioned a dedicated NSPCC helpline for adults who were victims of sexual abuse in childhood within the football industry.Chelsea paid me £50000 to prevent child abuse revelations – Johnson – Sporting NewsChelsea’s secret pay-off in child sex abuse claim may have broken Premier League rules – Telegraph.co.ukChelsea face second child abuse claim – Sky News AustraliaFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
| Report: Child abuse increasing in East Austin, rural Travis Co.KXAN.comWhile child abuse cases are decreasing in central Austin, they are increasing in East Austin and the rural areas of Travis County, states a report by … Flag as irrelevant |
| Wyatt’s Law: A mom’s mission to stop repeat child abuseDetroit Free PressShe’s on a crusade to create a statewide online, searchable child–abuse registry, similar to the Michigan sex-offender registry, so anyone, anywhere … Flag as irrelevant |
| Baltimore tutor charged with child abuse after 7yo hospitalized with head injuriesRTBaltimore City Police confirmed 25-year-old Timothy Randall Korr was arrested Wednesday on charges of child abuse and assault following an …Baltimore school tutor charged with child abuse in Trayvon Grayson beating – MicBaltimore teacher charged with child abuse for allegedly breaking jaw of ‘disruptive’ 7-year-old – Raw StoryTutor charged with child abuse after boy, 7, suffers fractured jaw – Q13 FOXFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant |
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| Submissions for public hearing into Brisbane Grammar School and St Paul’s SchoolMedia releases, Child Abuse Royal CommissionThe Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has published the written submissions for the public hearing into Brisbane … Flag as irrelevant |
| A Call to End Corporal Punishment in SchoolsPrevent Child Abuse America15 years ago, our Board of Directors adopted a resolution calling for corporal punishment to be banned in schools. Today, we are reaffirming our … Flag as irrelevant |
| Child AbuseWOW 104.3Additional Charges for Child Sexual Abuse Suspect … Local News, News Tags: ada county jail, Boise, Child abuse, Marco Chi-Cordero, newsletter. Flag as irrelevant |
| FIFA’s Infantino urges zero tolerance for child abuse92.7 The Van WYVNSINGAPORE (Reuters) – FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for “zero tolerance” of child abuse in football and promised to look into ways the … Flag as irrelevant |
| UK football child abuse: Wayne Rooney offers supportCNNLondon (CNN) Wayne Rooney has become the first star player to urge victims of past child abuse in the world of football not to suffer in silence.Eleven people come forward after Andy Woodward’s child abuse in football revelations – Mirror.co.ukTwo more victims of football child abuse scandal reveal their hell and claim it was a ‘cover up’ – Mirror.co.ukDario Gradi reveals Crewe chairman told him club will only respond to child abuse claims if they … – Daily MailFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| FBI closes Brad Pitt child abuse investigationCNN(CNN) The FBI has closed an investigation into child abuse allegations against Brad Pitt involving one of his children, an FBI spokeswoman said.FBI ends child abuse investigation of Brad Pitt – CBS NewsFBI drops child abuse inquiry against Brad Pitt – USA TODAYFBI officially clears Brad Pitt of child abuse allegations – Business InsiderFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Crewe to launch independent review into handling of child abuse allegationsThe GuardianCrewe Alexandra football club announced it will launch an independent investigation into how it has dealt with child sex abuse allegations concerning …Crewe launch independent review on handling of child abuse allegations – ESPN FCThe Observer view on child abuse – The GuardianFootball sex abuse: Crewe launch child abuse investigation – BBC NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Let child abuse inquiry do its work, says victimThe GuardianThe child abuse inquiry’s chair, Prof Alexis Jay, has yet to publish her review of how the investigation should operate. Photograph: Dave Higgens/PA.Child abuse victims call for public hearing to drive inquiry forward – The GuardianFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Pair in custody, facing charges of child abuseBoston HeraldHELD: Donna Rodeheffer, 33, of Webster, and her husband, Nicolas Emory, 24, are facing abuse charges after three children in their custody were … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ostrander couple charged with child abusePost-BulletinPRESTON, An Ostrander couple has been charged after authorities documented a long list of abuse against at least one of their children, crimes … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ted Heath’s accuser ‘gave child abuse inquiry fantastical evidence’The GuardianA woman who accused Sir Ted Heath of satanic child abuse contributed to “a catalogue of fabrication” by making outrageous allegations after … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Met Police making ‘serious errors’ in child abuse cases, inspectors warnThe IndependentBritain’s largest police force is putting children at risk because of “serious errors” in its response to child sexual abuse, according to inspectors. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby boy in Wentzville child abuse case diesSTLtoday.comRobert Burnette and Megan Hendricks, of Wentzville, were charged with child abuse. Police say Burnette shook and slammed his 6-week-old son and …Wentzville infant severely injured in child abuse case dies – fox2now.comWentzville infant at center of horrific child abuse case dies – KSDK.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Northern Territory reveals 20% rise in reports of child abuseThe GuardianThe Northern Territory children’s commissioner said the state was ‘struggling with the enormity’ of child abuse reports. Photograph: Dan Peled/AAP. Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Fairmont Couple Arrested On Child Abuse Charges – WBOYWBOYA Fairmont couple was arrested after deputies said they left multiple bruises on a 9-year-old child. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child abuse inquiry vital but must act to restore confidenceParliamentThe Home Affairs Committee publishes a short report on the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) alongside evidence from former … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Lancaster Man Sentenced For Uploading Child Abuse Fantasies To InternetThe BayPreston Crown Court heard how 48 year old Philip Fawcett uploaded scores of sick child abuse stories onto a blog after viewing indecent images … Flag as irrelevant |
CA: Yolo County’s Child Welfare Renaissance
Daily Democrat – December 11, 2016
Yolo County’s youth may be safer than they were six months ago thanks to the recent overhaul of Child Welfare Services. After a baby died due to his mother’s drug abuse and a Yolo County supervisor lost a foster child to what he believed to be an unsafe home, the Board decided to look into how the agency could be improved.
CA: Philip Browning Reflects on Running L.A.’s Sprawling Child Welfare System
Chronicle of Social Change – December 09, 2016
This week, the head of the nation’s largest child protection agency surprised his staff and the broader child welfare community by announcing his retirement. Philip Browning has served as director of the Los Angeles County’s sprawling Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for five years, the second-longest stint in the agency’s 32-year history.
CO: State’s plan to withhold money could cost El Paso County’s most vulnerable children
Gazette – December 10, 2016
Colorado human services leaders are weighing the idea of withholding more than $6 million in child welfare allocations that are divided between the state’s 64 counties’ Department of Human Services programs. Instead of promptly dispensing the funds to the counties, the state will first handle some of its own costs that include such things as senior level salaries, rent, various programs and more.
GA: State reaches milestone in lawsuit over child protection
Associated Press – December 12, 2016
Georgia officials have entered an agreement that could provide a way out of a decade-old court order that has cost the state millions to revamp its child protection system.
Also: GA: Milestone reached in lawsuit against DFCS: myajc.com
IA: Watchdog: Starved teen’s death likely to trigger scrutiny of changes to Iowa’s child welfare law (Includes video)
Des Moines Register – December 09, 2016
One day, the criminal investigation of Nicole and Joe Finn will be over. Then those in Iowa’s child-welfare system will need to explain what they did or failed to do after they were told 16-year-old Natalie Finn was being abused in her mother’s West Des Moines home – and how siblings adopted out of foster care in that home came to be tortured.
KS: New statues in Kansas commemorate Orphan Train movement
Chicago Tribune – December 12, 2016
A new bronze statue of a little girl sits on a sidewalk in Concordia, Kan. Her name is Miriam Zitur, and she’s about 6 years old with pigtails and bare feet. The statues celebrate the upcoming 10th anniversary of the National Orphan Train Complex that opened in 2007.
KS: Social services demand action (Opinion)
Associated Press – December 11, 2016
Rep. Jim Ward, D-Wichita, was justified in raising concerns last week about the processing of child-abuse reports. It is one of many recent concerns about state social services that lawmakers and the Brownback administration need to address.
Also: Agency chief: Kansas has no backlog of child abuse reports: wral.com
LA: Analysis: Social services agency struggles under budget cuts
Associated Press – December 11, 2016
Louisiana’s social services department was the poster child of “do more with less” during former Gov. Bobby Jindal’s era, its budget slashed in half over eight years. Now, it’s becoming a cautionary tale about how deeply budget cuts have impacted state services.
ME: Busting six myths about adopting a foster child in Maine
Bangor Daily News – December 09, 2016
Understandably, there are plenty of reasons given for NOT being able to adopt from foster care. However, some of those reasons are just untrue. Let’s bust a few myths!, I’m single Singles, same-sex couples, unmarried couples, empty nesters and growing families are all welcome to learn more about becoming a foster/adoptive parent. Don’t let your status stop you!
MN: A day in the life of a ….. Child protection worker
Mille Lacs Messinger – December 09, 2016
The situations Mille Lacs County child protection assistant director Suzanne Lelwica’s employees face are emotionally taxing and at times dangerous, she said. Lelwica has been in the child protection field for 25 years. She often tells her employees, “‘When you leave here, leave it here.’ As much as I can say that, the reality is it still sticks with you.”
MT: Bullock replacing six agency directors; four retiring (Includes video)
KTVQ` – December 09, 2016
Gov. Steve Bullock on Friday announced the departure or reshuffling of six of his appointed state agency directors – including the director of state government’s largest department, Public Health & Human Services.
NE: Proposals aim to let 18-year-olds seek emancipation from parents, make it clear that authorities can protect youths
Omaha World-Herald – December 11, 2016
The laws offered her no means of seeking emancipation from her parents and were conflicted about whether, as an 18-year-old, she could have gotten protection through the child welfare system. That left Walker in a state of fear and anxiety until she turned 19. Now the University of Nebraska at Omaha sophomore is telling her story to state policymakers and advocates in hopes of getting the laws changed.
NV: Youth homelessness is growing in Washoe County
KOLO 8 – December 12, 2016
Youth homelessness is a growing problem in Washoe County. Every year, local nonprofits come together to count those without homes between the ages of 18 and 24, in the hope of highlighting the problem for lawmakers and the community.
NY: Ministry helps families of incarcerated individuals
Daily Star – December 11, 2016
Many people acknowledge the holiday season as being a very trying occasion for families as they try to organize their time, their gift-giving and their relationships, but it is doubly so for families dealing with the incarceration of a loved one. It was to help address this issue that the Jail Ministry of Otsego County threw its second annual Angel Tree Party on Saturday morning at St. Mary’s School on Walnut Street.
OH: High turnover, burnout puts local child welfare systems in crisis
WHIO – December 09, 2016
A yet-to-be-published study by the Public Children Services Association of Ohio found that 450 of Ohio’s good-performing, non-retirement age caseworkers – or about 14 percent of all public child welfare caseworkers – left the job between July 1, 2015, and June 30 of this year. Add retirements, promotions and terminations and the number reaches 24 percent.
OR: Portland’s ’99 girlfriends’ give $100K to help homeless, foster & convicted youth in college
Oregonian – December 11, 2016
A new women’s collective giving group, built under the moniker “ninety-nine girlfriends,” has awarded $100,000 to a Portland-based collaborative that helps students least likely to finish high school and enter college.
TX: Austin-based organization expands foster family support program into Hays County
Community Impact Newspaper – December 09, 2016
In the Buda area, an Austin-based charity supports 22 foster children and their families. Austin Angels recruits, engages and trains groups of volunteers, such as friends, neighbors, church groups and businesses, to form a team for what the charity calls its Love Box program.
TX: CASA Weighs in on Abbott’s Pilot Program For Foster Children (Includes video)
Everything Lubbock – December 09, 2016
Governor Greg Abbott approved an $8 million dollar pilot program on Wednesday, aimed at helping 500 of the state’s ‘highest risk’ foster children. Working to get them out of restricted care facilities, and psychiatric hospitals, and moving them to a more stable home-style setting.
TX: Lawmakers want at-risk Texas children made a priority (Opinion) (Includes video)
CBS Austin – December 09, 2016
Texas lawmakers want to see at-risk children made a priority when they convene next month despite claims from a New York children’s rights group that the foster care system isn’t in need of repair. “We have a real problem with our foster care system and CPS system in Texas,” said State Senator Charles Schwertner.
Also: Foster children’s lawyers hit Texas leaders as two-faced on need for improvements (Opinion): Foster childrens lawyers hit texas leaders two faced need improvements (dallasnews.com)
Also: Advocates: Revamp Texas adoption care after mistreated teens: Advocates revamp texas adoption care after mistreated teens (foxnews.com)
TX: Schwertner Announces Major Reforms to Texas Foster Care System; Calls on Abbott to Make Emergency Item
Texas Insider – December 09, 2016
Today, Senator Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown) filed Senate Bill 11, a legislative package outlining substantial reforms to the way the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) cares for the state’s foster children. In announcing the legislation, Schwertner also called on Governor Greg Abbott to add issues of child protection and foster care to a list of emergency priorities that can be considered within the first 60 days of the 85th Legislative Session, which begins on January 10.
Related: TexProtects Statement on Senate Bill 11 (Press release): Texprotects statement on senate bill 11 (texasinsider.org)
TX: State should work with feds to fix CPS (Opinion)
Denton Record-Chronicle – December 09, 2016
It was encouraging to see lawmakers put their infighting aside recently and finally approve an emergency request to hire more than 800 new workers and grant $12,000 pay raises at the beleaguered Texas Child Protective Services. But these long-overdue short-term steps are just a start. State officials on both sides of the political aisle agree that a top-to-bottom overhaul of this chaotic agency has long been in order.
Also: More than raises needed to fix CPS (Opinion): More than raises needed to fix CPS (mysanantonio.com)
Also: Foster care lawsuit filing: State says one thing in court, another in public (Opinion): Foster care filing State says one thing in (chron.com)
US: Making sure young immigrants are protected (Opinion)
Times Ledger – December 12, 2016
Donald Trump, as a candidate, made conflicting statements about immigration while campaigning, leaving the future of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) ambiguous. His rhetoric on immigration, ranging from the fanciful “border wall” to a call to end birthright citizenship, has activists convinced that the program’s days are numbered.
US: Custody in crisis: How family courts nationwide put children in danger
Salon – December 11, 2016
In many cases across the country, family courts ignore evidence of sexual or physical abuse, putting kids in peril.
US: Child advocates: Pass foster care reform
Winston-Salem Journal – December 10, 2016
A version of the proposal – known as the Family First Prevention Act – had been passed in June by the U.S. House with bipartisan support. The proposal was scheduled to come up for a vote last week in the U.S. Senate but never did. Now, it appears as if it won’t come up again until Congress reconvenes next year, according to Karen McLeod, the president and chief executive of Benchmarks, an advocacy group based in Raleigh.
US: Congress Passes Spending Package But Child Priorities Remain Undone (Opinion)
Youth Today – December 09, 2016
With work on its last must-pass priority nearly complete, Congress will adjourn in the coming weeks without finishing work on a number of bills related to children. Without action, the bills will need to be re-introduced in the new Congress to have a chance at passage. The bills include child welfare, child nutrition, juvenile justice and education legislation.
Also: Senator Blocks Foster Care Reform To Protect Religious Group’s Profits: Senator blocks foster care reform protect religious groups profits (patheos.com)
Information Gateway Resource: System Reform: childwelfare.gov
US: Silicon Valley Mobilizes to Hack Foster Care
Chronicle of Social Change – December 09, 2016
Early next year, when it hosts its own “Hack Foster Care Summit,” Silicon Valley will pick up the baton in the third leg of what is becoming a national effort to better use technology to improve the lives of children and youth in foster care. Back in May the Administration for Children Youth and Families convened the first ever White House Foster Care hackathon, which has sparked follow up events in New York, Santa Clara, Los Angeles and likely Massachusetts.
US: The Largest-Ever Survey Of Transgender People In America Has Some Disturbing Findings
Self – December 09, 2016
Stangio says societal rejection and discrimination is a big problem for members of the transgender community, leading to poverty and unemployment. “When you are more likely to be rejected by your family, rejected by so-called social welfare systems like foster care, public assistance, and shelter assistance, denied employment, and profiled by police, it pushes you to the margins of society,” he says. “This all creates a cycle of unemployment, poverty, incarceration.”
US: Udall, Heinrich Urge Passage of Foster Care Reforms to Help Growing Number of Children Affected by Opioid Abuse Epidemic (Press release)
PublicNow – December 05, 2016
U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined 23 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to congressional leaders urging them to include strongly supported reforms to the foster care system in any end-of-year budget agreement. The Family First Prevention Services Act would allow states to use federal foster care funds to pay for programs that improve home life, such as mental health services and in-home parenting programs, which are crucial in light of the growing number of children in the foster care system whose families are affected by the opioid abuse epidemic and other substance abuse problems. The programs would enable more children to stay in their homes or with extended family and prevent children from being placed in group homes unnecessarily.
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Assembly of First Nations Stands with First Nations Children in Supporting Presentation to Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to Seek Relief in Complaint Against Canada (Press release)
PR Newswire – December 09, 2016
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is today expressing steadfast support for First Nations children as the Executive Director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society (the Society) is set to appear before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) to call for action on the decision by the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal to end discrimination in its provision of First Nations child and family services on reserve.
Greece: Sexual Exploitation and the Syrian Refugee Crisis
Relevant – December 09, 2016
So far this year, over 2,500 refugees have died somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea in their desperate voyages to places like Athens. Those who do survive the journey find they left one hell only to find another. Without adequate government support, the mass influx of asylum seekers to Athens created a slum where its labyrinth of streets bring together a precarious mix of ethnic rivals, foreign illnesses and abject poverty.
Japan: Could easier adoptions stem child abuse in Japan?
Japan Times – December 10, 2016
In his book “Kichiku no Ie” (“House of Brutality”), Kota Ishii explains that the Japan Pediatric Society assumes that official statistics about infant and toddler killings are the tip of the iceberg. The real number of child killings is probably three to five times higher, because doctors who evaluate the deaths of very young children in emergency situations are reluctant to accuse parents of abuse, even if they suspect as much.
United Kingdom: British schools ‘under pressure’ as education chiefs warn hundreds of children will arrive from Calais’ Jungle camp
Sun – December 10, 2016
Over 750 children have been brought over to the UK to start a new life after the Calais Jungle was demolished, but only 103 councils have volunteered to give them school places.
| A man confessed to punching a baby boy to death, police say. Why he may not face charges.Washington PostHis death had been ruled a homicide. But the confession was not enough to charge Johnson for the child’s death. The 30-year-old man, who was the …Man not charged despite ‘confessing to punching baby to death because child was crying’ – Mirror.co.ukMan who confessed to punching baby to death because he wouldn’t stop crying released … – The SunFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Bridgeport officer tears up on Live PD after baby dies, social media reactsCT PostBRIDGEPORT, Officials confirm that a 1-year-old child died early Saturday morning of unknown causes. “There doesn’t appear to be any foul play,” …Connecticut Police Officer’s Teary-Eyed Reaction to Baby’s Death Leads to Powerful Response – Patch.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| ‘Healthy’ newborn baby found dead in crib at just 17 days old in “dirty” home that “smelt of cannabis”Mirror.co.ukA healthy newborn died in her crib in “dirty and dishevelled” home that smelt strongly of cannabis at just 17 days old, an inquest heard. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Testimony ends in baby death capital murder trialMonitorEDINBURG, The blow that killed an 11-month old baby boy was not caused by an accidental fall. That was the testimony of the county’s forensic … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Parents sue hospitals, ambulance company over baby’s deathCitizens VoiceWILKES-BARRE, The family of an 11-month-old boy who died of septic shock caused by an intestinal problem has filed suit against a litany of … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Jurors shown interrogation video of defendant in baby death caseMonitorEDINBURG, The man accused of causing the death of his girlfriend’s 11-month old baby boy told authorities during an interrogation he believed the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| DA will not file charges against man who punched baby to deathKTRK-TVDetectives arrested Johnson for murder in the death of Jose Luis Espinoza. … said they are confident Johnson is guilty– so is the baby’s mother.A man punched a crying baby boy so hard he died, police say, but he may not face charges – Cortez JournalFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby Death Lawsuit Cites A Hospital Language BarrierHonolulu Civil BeatA Chuukese couple is suing Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children, where their 9-month-old son died after a series of visits to the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Charges dropped in baby death, hash oil case involving Penrose manPueblo ChieftainThe cause of the baby’s death was undetermined; however, “suspicious elements surround the death of Grayson,” according to an affidavit by Fremont … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Bridgeport Police Investigate Death Of 1-Year-OldHartford CourantA caretaker for the biological mother, John Turek, identified the child as Michael Citron. Harris said it appears the child died of sudden infant death … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Ice mum ‘starved baby to death‘New IdeaDisturbing information has come out surrounding the death of a three-month old baby. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby’s death prompts reminder to secure mediciationschextvDurham Police say a recent accidental overdose is a tragic reminder to always secure medication. On Tuesday, p… Flag as irrelevant |
| Baby Dies of Vicks VapoRub Poisoning? : snopes.comsnopes.comA viral Facebook post claimed that a baby died in his sleep after his mother applied Vicks VapoRub to soothe his fever, but we found no evidence the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Five more ‘avoidable’ baby deaths in another Scottish maternity unitTelegraph.co.ukBut the disclosure of the Caithness cases came less than a week after it emerged six babies had died “unnecessarily” at Crosshouse Hospital in …Apology over baby deaths at Caithness General Hospital – BBC NewsHealth board apologises over deaths of 5 babies in Caithness – ScotsmanFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| McComb police investigate baby’s deathJackson Clarion LedgerA 5-month-old child was found unresponsive Sunday morning and could not … the Mississippi Medical Examiner’s Office report as to cause of death.Baby’s death under investigation in McComb – WAPT JacksonMcComb Police investigate death of 5-month-old baby – WJTVFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Bramley baby death: Newborn was left in carrier bagBBC NewsA newborn baby who died after being left outside a church vicarage was abandoned in a supermarket carrier bag. The boy was found outside St …Newborn baby dies after being found dumped outside Yorkshire church – The SunPolice search for mother after newborn baby left in a bag outside church dies – BreakingNews.ieNewborn baby and placenta found abandoned in Tesco bag outside vicarage – ITV NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant Dies During Police Protest in Baltimore After Cop Heroically Tries to Save Her LifePEOPLE.comAn infant who stopped breathing during a protest of a police-involved shooting in Baltimore died on Saturday, according to authorities. In a statement …Baby girl dies during Baltimore police shooting protest – New York Daily NewsInfant dies during protest of Baltimore police-involved shooting – Atlanta Journal ConstitutionInfant dies during protest of shooting by Baltimore police – NH1 NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Full investigation into baby’s death should have happened years ago: Nunavut health directorCBC.caA full investigation into what happened the night Makibi Timilak died should have taken place years ago, a Nunavut health director testified …On-call nurse breached protocol, Nunavut inquest witnesses say – Nunatsiaq NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby boy in Wentzville child abuse case diesSTLtoday.comWENTZVILLE • The baby boy victimized in a high-profile child abuse case here has died, spurring prosecutors to elevate the felony charge already …Charge Upgraded for Father After Missouri Infant Dies – ABC NewsWentzville infant at center of horrific child abuse case dies – KSDK.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| 4 People, Including A Baby, Have Died In A Jail Run By Potential Trump Nominee Sheriff David …Huffington PostFour people, including a newborn baby, have died at the Milwaukee County Jail since April. One man, a 38-year-old with mental health issues, died of …How Long Did My Dead Sister Suffer in Your Jail, Sheriff Clarke? – Daily BeastFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| 3 adults, 1 child found shot to death inside Alaska hotel roomNew York Daily NewsMcKay Hutton and his baby daughter, Teagan, died in a murder-suicide that also claimed the life of his wife, Emily McDonald, at a Hampton Inn hotel …Family of four found dead in an Alaska hotel room in suspected murder-suicide – Daily MailMan Shot and Killed His Wife, 8-Week-Old Baby, and Mother Before Turning the Gun on Himself – Inside EditionBodies of 4 people found ‘shot to death‘ in Alaska hotel room – International Business Times UKFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Nunavut coroner’s inquest says baby’s death highlights problemsCTV NewsTwo of Joanasie’s constituents are the parents of baby Makibi Timilak, who died in the community of Cape Dorset in murky circumstances. Late Friday … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Nunavut coroner’s inquest says baby death highlights problemsMyMcMurrayIQALUIT, Nunavut – A coroner’s inquest has recommended significant changes to health care in Nunavut after the death of an infant in a remote Arctic … Flag as irrelevant | |
| West Yorkshire Police Give Update On Baby DeathPulse 1Officers say the cause of death is not yet known but they are very concerned for the child’s mother. West Yorkshire Police have given an update after a … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Woman faces charges for infant’s deathMadison PressCharges have been filed against a private daycare provider in London for the death of an infant. Jessica Carter, 35, of London, was caring for … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ambulance trust speeds pregnancy calls following baby’s deathHealth Service JournalAn ambulance trust has upgraded how it responds to some emergency calls from pregnant women, following the death of a full-term baby. Flag as irrelevant | |
| National NewsPenticton HeraldIQALUIT, Nunavut – A coroner’s inquest has recommended significant changes to health care in Nunavut after the death of an infant in a remote Arctic … Flag as irrelevant |
AL: Need for Foster and Adoptive Parents in Alabama (Includes video)
Alabama News – December 08, 2016
Hundreds of children across the state of Alabama are up for adoption this Christmas. Currently there are over 5500 children in the foster system and 190 of those are located in Montgomery County. Officials with the Department of Human Resources are asking for help in giving these children the homes and families they deserve.
CA: Program helps men learn to be the dads they want to be (Includes video)
Detroit Free Press – December 09, 2016
While PAPÁS focuses on fathers who want to be more involved in their children’s lives, it also seeks to improve men’s relationships with their children’s mothers. According to many studies, the single-most powerful predictor of a father’s engagement with his children is the quality of his relationship with their mother, regardless of whether the couple is married, divorced, separated or were never married.
The Detroit Free Press spent a year listening to Detroit’s children, trying to understand their experiences – as many face violence, trauma and instability. With help from a grant from the Solutions Journalism Network, we looked both in our own backyard and around the country for solutions that may help children deal with the “toxic stresses” in their lives. Series: freep.com
CA: Child Abuse Prevention Council: Helping children thrive
Recordnet.com – December 08, 2016
The Child Abuse Prevention Council protects children and strengthens families through awareness and outcome-driven programs delivered with compassion. Protecting children, including our foster youths, has been a primary goal of our Court Appointed Special Advocates program.
CT: Editorial: Adoption records are loosening but more is needed to help orphans, adoptees find out who they are
New Haven Register – December 08, 2016
Who am I? That is the question that more than 400,000 orphans in the United States and 140 million orphans worldwide probably ask themselves every day.
GA: Foster Care Crisis: Muscogee County officials look to churches, families as number of foster children rises
Ledger-Enquirer – November 28, 2016
Foster parents such as the Sikes are very much needed in Muscogee County, where the number of foster care children is rising while homes willing to accommodate them remain in short supply, according to local judges and officials at the Georgia Department of Family and Children’s Services.
HI: Gabbard on Sunrise to discuss Talia’s Law, Dakota Access pipeline (Video)
Hawaii News Now – December 08, 2016
Last year, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard introduced Talia’s Law, which requires child abuse reports to be sent to Child Protective Services. The House passed it, but the Senate never got to it. However, it will this week.
KS: Changes suggested to fix DCF problems (Includes video)
KWCH – December 07, 2016
We’ve seen the headlines. A mother in Wellington convicted of killing her son. The boy’s father blames DCF for not protecting him. The adoptive parents of three North Newton children accused of torturing them months after a series of reports to DCF. These are the types of things lawmakers are hoping to prevent with some new rules.
MN: Editorial: Aim early-education scholarships at greatest needs
Pioneer Press – December 08, 2016
As those we elect formulate plans to address Minnesota early-education needs, one word should guide their thinking: prioritize. The clear priority for targeted investment should be the estimated 40,000 low-income children identified as “left behind” for lack of access to high-quality early-education programs.
NM: Panel backs better online access to court records for some
Albuquerque Journal – December 08, 2016
A panel of judges, lawyers and court administrators voted Thursday to recommend expanded online access to court records for the press and some others – a step toward opening it to the general public once funding is available. It would allow registered participants to access court records at any time from their computers, rather than having to go to courthouses. Those groups would include attorneys and their staffs, the press, litigants representing themselves, and “justice partners,” such as law enforcement and child welfare agencies.
NY: Monroe County reports spike in child neglect
Democrat and Chronicle – December 07, 2016
The county Department of Health Services anticipates handling about 10,000 reports of child abuse and neglect by the end of 2016, according to its 2017 budget proposals. That is up 12 percent from 2015 and 30 percent from 2014, when there were 7,665 such cases.
Also: Rise in child abuse cases prompts funding request (Includes video): rochesterfirst.com
RI: Guest commentary: Our small state has a large need for foster parents
Westerly Sun – December 09, 2016
In my time being the Foster Care Recruiter at Devereux, I have found out the hard way, how difficult it is to find homes for these children, not because folks are unwilling, but rather, because they just do not fully understand how big of an issue this is in the state of Rhode Island.
SC: More foster families sought in Upstate
Go Upstate – December 07, 2016
As 2017 nears, multiple Upstate agencies are working hard to recruit more foster families to help children in need have a better life. The S.C. Department of Social Services, S.C. Youth Advocate Program, the University of South Carolina Upstate and Miracle Hill Ministries are ramping up efforts to get community members registered as foster families, and provide support to those families and children in need.
TX: Bill filed to address major reforms to state foster care system
KTBC – December 08, 2016
Today, Senator Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown) filed Senate Bill 11, a legislative package outlining substantial reforms to the way the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) cares for the state’s foster children.
TX: Child advocates say Texas contradicts itself on foster care
Associated Press – December 08, 2016
Texas’ objections to reforms to its troubled foster care system that were recommended by court-appointed experts are “grossly at odds” with state officials’ statements out of court and before legislators, the advocacy group that successfully sued the state said Thursday.
TX: Austin Supportive Housing to Aid Homeless, Vets, Musicians
Housing Finance – December 07, 2016
The 107-unit Bluebonnet Studios in Austin, Texas, has been designed by nonprofit Foundation Communities to serve very low-income single adults. The project will serve chronically homeless, retirees, and single individuals who are working for very low wages. Twenty-two units are reserved for formerly homeless individuals, 22 for low-income veterans, six units for young adults aging out of foster care, and at least five units for low-income musicians.
TX: Report Sheds Light on Plight of Parents in Custody Cases Involving Child Abuse
Rewire – December 07, 2016
A new report from the investigative news organization 100Reporters throws light on complaints of a parent sexually or physically abusing a child being routinely rejected at family courts around the country.
Also: Custody in Crisis: How Family Courts Nationwide Put Children in Danger: Custody 2 (100r.org)
US: A missed opportunity: Congress fails to pass needed foster care reforms (Opinion)
Register-Guard – December 09, 2016
At first glance, the Family First Prevention Services Act looked to be about as close to a slam-dunk as a piece of federal legislation can be in these contentious times. So what went wrong?
US: A North Carolina Senator Wants to Block a Foster Care Reform Bill
Teen Vogue – December 08, 2016
Each day, there are approximately 415,000 children in foster care in the United States, according to Children’s Rights. On average, kids remain in the system for two years, and 7% remain for five or more years. In 2014 alone, more than 22,000 people aged out of foster care without permanent families – something, Children’s Rights reports, leads to a greater chance of homelessness, unemployment, or incarceration.
US: A Prison Sentence Impacts Many (Opinion)
Whitman Wire – December 08, 2016
There are many victims of America’s unjust system of mass incarceration, but there is a particular demographic that is deeply affected yet often goes unacknowledged: the children of those who are incarcerated.
Information Gateway resource: Supporting Children and Families of Prisoners: Prisoners (childwelfare.gov)
US: What Parents Need To Know About Having A Foster Child And How It Could Change Their Life For The Better
Parent Herald – December 08, 2016
For those of you who don’t know what foster parenting is, with the help of LACDCFS, this means that one could temporarily provide a haven or home for a child until such time that he or she can reunite with his or her biological family. It is far different from adoption because this requires less paperwork. Although you would still need to be qualified to be a foster parent before being able to offer any child your home or care.
US: Reunification: The Ultimate Goal? (Opinion)
Chronicle of Social Change – December 07, 2016
The thing I heard the most from adults during my time in the system was that “the ultimate goal is reunification,” but never did I hear about how the state supports that process, or doesn’t.
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Ontario introduces ‘historic’ changes to child-protection laws
Toronto Star – December 08, 2016
Advocates, child protection workers and youth are praising the introduction of historic provincial legislation that puts the needs of Ontario’s most vulnerable children at the heart of every decision about their care.
United Kingdom: UK football sex abuse: 83 suspects and 98 clubs involved in inquiry
CNN – December 09, 2016
There are now 83 potential suspects and 98 teams involved in the inquiry into historic child sexual abuse in English football, the National Police Chiefs’ Council revealed.
| Bulgarian orphan’s transformation from brink of death to adoption by American coupleDaily MailPriscilla Morse (center) was inspired to adopt Ryan after seeing his picture on … her Facebook in June 2014 and saw his picture on an adoption page. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Court reexamining Liberty Belle’s adoption caseWJXT JacksonvilleThe adoption of Liberty Belle Phillips appears to be on hold as the custody battle over the toddler is now being reexamined by a Duval County judge. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Pizarro: Dancing Cat celebrates 100th adoptionThe Mercury NewsSix-month old Indy stares down at San Jose resident Emily Sooy, who took home the cat on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016. It marked the 100th adoption … Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Guncles’ Bill Horn and Scout Masterson’s Blog: The Ups and Downs of Our Son Bosley’s (2 …PEOPLE.comAfter two-plus years of riding on an adoption roller coaster, we’d like to share with you why we’ve been silent about the adoption of our son, Bosley Jo. Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Specter of Performance and the Adoption of Hybrid CloudsGigaomLooking at the adoption rates and trends at such a detailed level, it’s undeniable that the most successful technology leaders of today and tomorrow … Flag as irrelevant | |
| How Nicole Kidman’s Own Experience With Adoption Helped Connect Her to ‘Lion’VarietyKidman notes that her role in the film was a good fit for her, as she was able to draw from her own personal experiences in adopting two of her four … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Adopt, don’t shop, and save $ with Philadelphia mega weekend eventPhillyVoice.comReferred to as a mega adoption event sponsored by the Brandywine Valley SPCA and the Petco Foundation, the event is meant to make adoption … Flag as irrelevant | |
| New film exploring international adoption to screen in SummitNJ.comIn “The Hanji Box,” an American woman seeks to repair her relationship with the child she adopted from Korea almost 20 years earlier. She sees her … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Some Military Dogs May Get Quicker AdoptionMilitary.comDogs contracted to the Defense Department may get quicker adoptions under a bill expected to pass Congress this week. Once their work for the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Hundreds of cats, dogs get forever homes at Mega Adoption Event6abc.comEach event is going to have a different goal, but essentially it’s our way to cultivate a no-kill community through adoptions,” said Eli Martinez, … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| AdoptFacultyEnlight Flag as irrelevant | |
| Adoption SpecialistCraigslistThe Humane Society of Boulder Valley is seeking friendly, outgoing individuals who enjoy working with people for the position of Adoption Specialist. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Gay parents adoption essayRCLALQProfessional Academic Help. Starting at $7.99 per pageOrder is too expensive? Split your payment apart – Gay parents adoption essay. Flag as irrelevant |
| Missouri neighbors discover adopted daughters from China are half-sistersUSA TODAYAdoptive families share an obvious bond, but two Missouri parents share more – their daughters, adopted from different cities in China, are half-sisters. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Nicole Kidman on adoption, giving birth and surrogacy: ‘I am a mother because I love being a mother’CNNKidman adopted two children with ex-husband Tom Cruise and has two biological children with husband Keith Urban. She told CNN that her desire to … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Why is it so expensive to adopt a child?Washington PostAcross the world, there are thousands of children in need of homes. In America, there are thousands of families looking for children to adopt. Sounds … Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Heartbreaking Way the U.S. Has Failed Thousands of Children Adopted From OverseasSlate MagazineAs a global community, we agree that adoption is a legal process by which a child goes from a bad situation to a better one. The child becomes a … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Woman Starts Foundation to Help Fund Adoptions, Build FamiliesABC NewsNovember is National Adoption month, and one woman is helping turn dreams into reality for families looking to adopt for those who don’t have the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Nonprofit helps families defray adoption costsTampabay.comBut adopting baby Lucas proved bittersweet. The pair were thrilled about their son but anxious about how to pay the thousands of dollars it would cost … Flag as irrelevant | |
| 2 brothers, 3 mothers, 1 memorable adoption storyThe TennesseanThe letter, written in bubbly cursive with a purple pen, begins like this: To My Precious Son,. This is a very hard letter for me to write. I have so much … Flag as irrelevant | |
| ‘It meant everything to me’: Mich. does Adoption DayThe Detroit NewsMore than one year later, his forever family was made official Tuesday at a Michigan Adoption Day hearing before Macomb County Circuit Court … Flag as irrelevant | |
| St. Luke’s adoption and surrogacy program ranks #1 in U.S.KTVB.comBOISE – November is National Adoption Month, and some may not know – but a program at St. Luke’s Hospital called the “Unique Families Program” is … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Home for the Pawlidayz Adoption DriveNBC Southern CaliforniaThe Zappos Home for the Pawlidayz adoption event, which coincides with the mega, post-Thanksgiving sales weekend, is not about deals but rather …Home for the Pawlidayz | Waived adoption fees at The Animal Foundation this weekend – News3LVFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Don’t Miss Cat Friday at the ASPCA Adoption Center!aspcaHave you heard? The best Black Friday deal has four paws! This Friday, November 25, come meet your new furry best friend at the ASPCA’s Sixth … Flag as irrelevant | |
| I’m not called to adopt. Now what?ERLCThere are multiple ways for the church to get involved in proclaiming the gospel. Adoption is a clear way to display the gospel, but it’s not the only way. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Brother’s response to baby’s adoption has courtroom laughingMSN.comThis Florida courtroom erupted into laughter when a big brother was asked about his baby sister’s adoption. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mustang Emergency Adoption (Adopt Now!)craigslistISMB HORSE EMERGENCY ADOPTION CAMPAIGN OVERVIEW and HOW TO ADOPT . This campaign’s purpose is to help facilitate the adoption … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Two Sisters Adopted Six Children on National Adoption DayMSN.comIn fact, they’re not even people you’d expect to be raising children together – the thirty-something women, who just adopted six children, are sisters. Flag as irrelevant | |
| NewsroomGartnerMobile device adoption in the workplace is not yet mature, found a recent survey from Gartner, Inc. Although 80 percent of workers surveyed received … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Brother’s response to baby’s adoption has courtroom laughingMSN.comBrother’s response to baby’s adoption has courtroom laughing. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Gay couple adoption essaybrigadebgc.orgProfessional Academic Help. Starting at $7.99 per pageOrder is too expensive? Split your payment apart – Gay couple adoption essay. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Adoption Case ManagerCraigslistFamilies For Children is a social service agency serving the foster care and adoption community. We are seeking a full time bi-lingual case manager to … Flag as irrelevant |
AR: 2017 legislature spreads its wings (Opinion)
Arkansas Times – December 08, 2016
Less straightforwardly bad is a batch of bills from Sen. Alan Clark (R-Lonsdale) that would significantly change the Arkansas child welfare system, especially the role of the juvenile courts. Among other things, Clark wants to create a process for reinstatement of parental rights that have been previously terminated due to child maltreatment.
CA: Head of L.A. County’s child protective services agency to retire in early 2017
Los Angeles Times – December 07, 2016
Phlip L. Browning, the director of Los Angeles County’s child protective services agency and a veteran of county government, announced Wednesday that he is retiring early next year, capping a career in which he brought stability to a department plagued by high leadership turnover.
Also: Leader of Nation’s Largest Child Welfare System Announces Unexpected Retirement: chronicleofsocialchange.org
FL: Centers lays off 28 people, four in Citrus
Citrus Chronicle – December 07, 2016
The Centers, a nonprofit organization that provides inpatient and outpatient mental health services, addiction treatment and child welfare services in Marion and Citrus counties, has laid off 28 employees.
GA: State still faces shortage of caseworkers for foster kids
Georgia Health News – December 07, 2016
As the number of foster children in Georgia soars, a state agency continues to struggle with a high turnover rate among the caseworkers who help these kids.
IN: Group Plans More Training to Prevent Human Trafficking (includes audio)
Public News Service – December 08, 2016
As a new program in Indiana to help sex trafficking victims launches into its second year, its focus is on educating young people about healthy relationships and training community members so they can help prevent abuse. There have been 66 new cases of human trafficking reported in Indiana in 2016.
KS: DCF: Agency staff to conduct all annual foster home inspections by this summer
Topeka Capital-Journal – December 07, 2016
The agency updated lawmakers Wednesday on its efforts to respond to a highly critical audit released this past summer and other reform efforts. DCF has been moving to take away annual inspections of foster homes from agency contractors, citing potential conflicts of interest.
KY: Child abuse panel finds ‘evil’ amid reviews
Courier-Journal – December 07, 2016
Plowing through details of some of Kentucky’s worst child abuse and neglect cases – those which result in the death or the near-death of a child – panel members look for common causes, missed opportunities to intervene and ways to improve Kentucky’s complex system of child protection that involves the courts, police, state social service workers, school officials, volunteers and others.
LA: Republican lawmakers criticize ‘astonishing’ growth in state health spending
Associated Press – December 07, 2016
Republican lawmakers on Louisiana’s House budget committee are bristling at spending increases in the state health department, saying the agency can’t keep growing every year. Today, the state’s social services agency asked for a sizable jump in next year’s budget, largely to deal with child welfare cases that the department’s secretary said are overwhelming workers. Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters told the House Appropriations Committee the state couldn’t serve children and families well without additional funds.
Also: Growth in Louisiana health department spending scrutinized: Growth louisiana health department spending (finance.yahoo.com)
NM: Agencies, lawmakers grapple over limited dollars
Associated Press – December 07, 2016
Officials with three key state agencies made their case to an influential panel of New Mexico lawmakers on Wednesday as the battle over limited funds begins to shape up ahead of the legislative session.
OH: Housing insecurity still impacts too many in Cuyahoga County despite recent strides: Mark McDermott (Opinion)
Plain Dealer – December 07, 2016
Families who lack a safe, stable, affordable home can’t reach the essential first rung on the ladder of opportunity. Children who are homeless or in unstable, poor-quality housing are more likely to suffer physical, developmental and mental health challenges. They are less likely to graduate high school and are at greater risk of substance abuse and incarceration. And children are not the only ones feeling this impact. Housing insecurity puts tremendous stress on adults, too, their health, jobs and relationships all suffer.
PA: Children in foster care: How to address their mental health needs (Opinion)
Philadephia Inquirer – December 08, 2016
There is an urgency to ensure each child’s needs are addressed when he or she enters foster care. Children in this system have greater health needs and frequently suffer from higher rates of behavioral and learning problems that are often misdiagnosed as ADHD.
TX: Gov. Abbott gives $8 million for 1,000 neediest foster children (Includes video)
Austin-American Statesman – December 07, 2016
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is giving the Department of Family and Protective Services an $8 million grant to improve emergency and long-term placements for up to 1,000 of the state’s neediest foster children.
Also: Pilot program for most-troubled foster kids unveiled: Pilot program for most troubled foster kids (chron.com)
Also: State to seek new housing options for most-troubled foster kids: State to seek new housing options for (houstonchronicle.com)
Also: Schwertner Announces Major Reforms to State Foster Care System; Calls on Abbott to Make it an Emergency Item: guidrynews.com
TX: New Dallas Clinic Provides Foster Children Consistent Medical, Mental Health Care
KERA – December 07, 2016
Texas lawmakers, doctors and foster care families attended the opening of the new Rees-Jones Center for Foster Care Excellence in Dallas this week. Texas Governor Greg Abbott helped cut the ribbon. “In this room,” he said, “is the brain power, and the prayer power that we need to conquer the challenges that our children confront in the state of Texas.”
WA: The magic and the madness of foster parenting (Opinion)
Crosscut – December 07, 2016
Washington has a parent-centered foster care system, not necessarily a child-centered one. A federal mandate says states should make reasonable efforts to reunite parents with their children, but that “reasonable” has turned into “every possible little move” in a lot of cases. Why does this matter? Because it means foster parents have few rights and no control in the system, and the kids can often be left in long-term limbo as the state focuses on getting parents back on track. It’s an exhausting combination for foster parents who truly want the very best for the kids in our care.
US: Foster Youth Demand Action as Landmark Foster Care Reform Bill Hangs In The Balance
Washington Sun – December 07, 2016
Dozens of foster youth, family advocates, and health and human services leaders gathered at the U.S. Capitol to call on Congress to prioritize the safety of children and pass the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA)-the most significant attempt to reform the foster care system in a generation-while they still have the chance. Despite the widespread, bipartisan support for the legislation, its future remains uncertain due to intense lobbying by special interest groups in the final weeks of the 114th Congress.
Information Gateway resource: Laws and Policies That Promote Systems of Care: Socpolicies (childwelfare.gov)
US: How this woman became a voice for children in foster care (Opinion)
Christian Science Monitor – December 07, 2016
We are not there as legal experts. We are the voice of the children. We learn about the situation that led to a child’s removal from the home and about the particular challenges the child is facing, and we recommend to the judge what is best for that individual child.
This essay is part of an occasional series provided by our partner organization Encore.org, which is building a movement to tap the skills and experience of those in midlife and beyond to improve communities and the world. Read more stories and share yours at Encore.org/story.
US: Wyden Asks Congress to Pass Historic Bipartisan, Bicameral Child Welfare Reform Bill (Press release)
Office of U.S. Senator for Oregon Ron Wyden – December 07, 2016
Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden, D-Ore., today voted against the 21st Century Cures Act because Republican leaders stripped bipartisan, bicameral child welfare legislation out of the final bill. Wyden then asked for unanimous consent that the Senate pass the Family First Prevention Services Act, which has the support of almost 500 child welfare organizations across the country, including the Children’s Defense Fund, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Catholic Bishops.
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Canada’s record on First Nations child welfare to face scrutiny in Washington (Includes video)
CBC News – December 07, 2016
Canada’s treatment of First Nations children will be debated on the world stage Friday, with the federal government poised to appear before the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights in Washington to defend the current state of the child welfare system.
United Kingdom: Law change gives unmarried fathers parental responsibility (Press release)
Island of Jersey, Home Affairs Department – December 02, 2016
An amendment to the law relating to parental responsibility has come into force today. It means unmarried fathers, who are registered as their child’s father (and therefore named on the birth certificate), will automatically acquire legal responsibility for making decisions about matters affecting their child’s welfare (parental responsibility).
| Sarasota couple arrested, charged with child neglect; 5 children living in deplorable conditionsABC Action NewsA Sarasota couple has been arrested and charged with five counts each of child neglect without great bodily harm after police officers conducted a …Couple charged in ‘worst’ child neglect case ever seen – Bradenton HeraldRotting Food, Feces, Drugs Prompt 2 Child Neglect Arrests – Patch.comPolice: Couple accused of neglect after children found living in filth – Sarasota Herald-TribuneFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Deputies investigate possible child neglect case after finding Genoa girl reported missingKRNV My News 4Deputies have uncovered a potential case of child endangerment or neglect after they responded to a report of a missing child Thursday, according to … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Day care center worker arrested for child neglectFauquier TimesAn employee of Kiddie Academy of Gainesville has been charged with felony child neglect after a 3-year-old girl walked away from the center.3-year-old allegedly leaves daycare unnoticed; director charged with neglect – FOX 5 DCA toddler walks out of a Va. day-care center, and a worker is charged with neglect – Washington PostCaretaker charged after 3-year-old walks out of Kiddie Academy – WUSA9.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Woman cited for child neglect after kidnapping, theft incidentKETV OmahaUPDATE: Shaquita Mitchell, 47, was cited for child neglect in connection with a child abduction Tuesday night, according to a release from the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Monroe County reports spike in child neglectRochester Democrat and ChronicleThe number of Monroe County children being neglected at home, or being placed in foster care is up sharply in 2016, according to the county’s … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mary Martinez Arrested: Milwaukee Woman Accused Of Child Abuse, Neglect Of 7-Year-Old BoyLatin TimesChild abuse is a huge epidemic around the world with many people currently imprisoned for the heinous crime. While there are many organizations …Neighbors React to Gruesome Abuse Death of 7-Year-Old – WDJTTwo Women Charged For Torturing Seven-Year-Old To Death, Tried to Pin It On Nine-Year-Old … – The InquisitrFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child in Genoa reported abducted found safe; child neglect possibleKOLOBut the case did reveal potential child neglect or endangerment, the sheriff’s office said. The sheriff’s office got the call of a possible child abduction in … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Lawmakers call for change after child neglect in Fort Bend Co.KHOU.comRICHMOND, TEXAS – The abuse and neglect of seven children found living in horrific conditions in Fort Bend County is prompting calls for action to …Deputies: 7 foster kids with special needs locked in closet, found living in urine and feces at … – CW39Seven children removed from filthy home to stay in foster care, judge rules – Chron.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Community members hope to end child neglect in SDKEVN Black Hills FoxRapid City, SD Community members gathered in Rapid City, Sunday – to make a difference in the fight against child abuse. This comes after officials … Flag as irrelevant | |
| CWC, Unicef bare results of national study on child abuseInquirer.netAs a first step to finally eradicate the country’s alarming child–abuse cases, the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) released the results of its first …‘Violence committed on Pinoy kids prevalent’ – Business Mirror‘80% kids still undergo violence’ – The StandardFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
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| child neglectWcmuA child advocacy center in northern Michigan is hoping to use their new … This entry was posted in Health and tagged child abuse, child neglect, … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Cause and effects of child abuse essaygymnazium-opatov.czChild abuse or child maltreatment is physical, sexual, or psychological mistreatment or neglect . James Bakley English 50 Cause and Effect Professor … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Cause effect essay child abusegymnazium-opatov.cz“Child abuse is not simply any harm that befalls children. abuse and neglect go unreported due to being misattributed to other causes Oct 13, 2013 … Flag as irrelevant |
| Pair in custody, facing charges of child abuseBoston HeraldHELD: Donna Rodeheffer, 33, of Webster, and her husband, Nicolas Emory, 24, are facing abuse charges after three children in their custody were … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Woman faces three charges of child neglectOcalaOCALA – Ocala police officers arrested a 23-year-old woman for three counts of child neglect after one child was found wandering at an apartment …Panama City Woman Facing Child Neglect Charges – My PanhandleFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ostrander couple charged with child abusePost-BulletinPRESTON, An Ostrander couple has been charged after authorities documented a long list of abuse against at least one of their children, crimes … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Tampa mother admits to child neglect in plea deal over death from rare diseaseTampabay.comTAMPA, A Tampa mother who faced a manslaughter charge after failing to provide medical care for her sick daughter pleaded guilty this week to a … Flag as irrelevant | |
| PD: Mother arrested after ‘malnourished’ and ‘neglected‘ kids found at CT homeWFSBThe children’s father is also expected to face charges in the case. … Her arrest comes after state police were called to a report of child neglect at a … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Bond set for Pontotoc County woman in child neglect caseKXII-TV(KXII), The Pontotoc County woman accused of neglect in the drowning death of a … Amber Thurman is charged with five counts of child neglect. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Deputies searching for man wanted on child neglect, sex chargesWCTVTALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV), Deputies with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office are searching for a suspect wanted on on child neglect and sex offenses … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Police: Child Found Locked Up, Bruised; Fillmore County Couple ChargedKAALtv.com31-year-old Angela Stewart is charged with four felony counts including attempted second-degree manslaughter, child neglect and malicious … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Devils Lake couple couple charged with Child Neglect, after alledgedly leaving children at home to …Valley News LiveDEVILS LAKE, N.D. A Devils Lake couple each faces a felony charge of child neglect, after allegedly leaving 2 small children at home and going …Couple accused of child neglect barricaded kids in apartment to go to Kmart, prosecutors say – Grand Forks HeraldPolice name couple charged in child neglect case – Devil’s Lake Daily JournalFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Fire alarm leads to charges of child neglectEnid News & EagleTwo of the children belonged to Selvey, and the other two she was … Slevey, 30, is charged with a felony count of child neglect for the incident from … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Marion County Couple Sentenced for Child Neglect – WBOYWBOYA Marion County couple was sentenced Tuesday for four counts of child neglect. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Couple Face Felony Child Neglect ChargesMyNDNowLocal parents are facing felony child neglect charges, after they allegedly left their children alone barricaded in their apartment. Police say Monday … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mom faces child neglect after kids exposed to heroinWPECA Lake Park mother is behind bars after sheriff’s officials say she was caught with heroin in front of young children believed to be her own.Palm Beach … Flag as irrelevant | |
| 2 People Arrested On Child Neglect Charges In ElkinsWBOYPolice in Elkins arrested two people on a child neglect charges. Timothy Hedrick and Amanda Williams face a charge of child neglect causing serious … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child Abuse, Neglect Cases Soar100.7 MIX-FMIndianapolis, Ind (WIBQ) – Child abuse and neglect cases have taken a startling jump in Indiana over the past decade. Data released by the Indiana … Flag as irrelevant |
CO: Children at Risk for Lead Exposure Aren’t Being Tested (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 06, 2016
Many Colorado kids at higher risk for lead poisoning aren’t being tested, according to analysis by The Colorado Trust. State guidelines call for doctors to test children in low-income households or who live in housing built before 1978, when lead paint was banned.
DE: Delaware part of long-term study of drug-exposed kids
Cape Gazette – December 06, 2016
Delaware is one of seven states that has been accepted into the Substance-Exposed Infant In-Depth Technical Assistance program, funded by the National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare. The center has worked with Connecticutt, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Jersey, Virginia and West Virginia, and will now include Delaware, on developing policy and practice to improve the lives of pregnant and postpartum women and their children.
GA: State still faces shortage of caseworkers for foster kids
Georgia Health News – December 06, 2016
As the number of foster children in Georgia soars, a state agency continues to struggle with a high turnover rate among the caseworkers who help these kids.
KS: Democratic leader calls for action by Brownback on DCF
Wichita Eagle – December 06, 2016
The top Democrat in the Kansas House is calling for action from Gov. Sam Brownback after it was reported that the Kansas Department for Children and Families had a backlog in processing neglect reports this fall because of a staffing shortage.
LA: DCFS announces Louisiana broke record for number of children adopted in a year
Louisiana Radio Network – December 07, 2016
Louisiana broke the state’s record for the number of foster children adoptions within a year. 735 children were adopted by 532 families between October of 2015 and September of 2016.
OH: Family 411: Kinship care allows relatives to raise kids when biological parents can’t (Includes video)
WSYX/WTTE – December 06, 2016
Relatives often step up to care for a child whose parents are unable or unwilling to do so. It’s called kinship care.
OR: Foster parent program provides homes for youngsters throughout Douglas County
News-Review – December 07, 2016
The primary reason behind most of those issues is directly attributed to substance abuse and addiction to methamphetamine, heroin, prescription narcotics, or alcohol abuse.
TX: Feds Empty Family Detention Centers After Texas Judge’s Ruling (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 07, 2016
A state judge has ruled that federal immigration detention centers cannot be licensed by Texas as child-care facilities. That has prompted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials to begin releasing thousands of mothers and children from family detention centers in South Texas.
Also: Hundreds of Central American moms and kids released from detention in Texas: Ice texas cent am moms kids 34c651135abd (thinkprogress.org)
TX: Lawmakers call for change after child neglect in Fort Bend Co. (Includes video)
KHOU – December 06, 2016
The abuse and neglect of seven children found living in horrific conditions in Fort Bend County is prompting calls for action to prevent it from happening again.
Also: 7 Texas special-needs teens were regularly locked in closet: Specialneeds texas teens found in deplorable conditions n2255957 (townhall.com)
Judge Orders Seven Abused, Special-Needs Adopted Kids to Foster Care: Judge orders seven abused special needs adopted kids to foster care (houstonpress.com)
UT: Kids Face Anxiety, Harassment at School in Wake of Election (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 06, 2016
A new report from the Southern Poverty Law Center confirms student anxiety and incidents of harassment are increasing, in Utah and across the nation, in the wake of the 2016 presidential election. Educators report immigrant, Muslim and African-American children, and those who identify as LGBT, are under the greatest levels of distress.
Report: Ten Days After: Harassment and Intimidation in the Aftermath of the Election: Ten days after harassment and intimidation aftermath election (splcenter.org)
WV: Foster care: West Virginia’s growing concern
West Virginia Press Association – December 07, 2016
The children taken in by the Grays were among 5,169 West Virginia kids in foster care in June. That was 608 more than at the same time last year and almost 1,000 more than in June 2013, according to the state’s monthly legislative foster care reports.
US: Making the Case for Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Stanford Social Innovation Review – December 06, 2016
Evidence-based practice has great potential to improve social outcomes, but only if we do a better job marketing and adapting it to address the specific problems at hand.
Information Gateway resource: Evidence-Based Practice: Evidence (childwelfare.gov)
INTERNATIONAL
Uganda: This former Ugandan child soldier is accused of war crimes. But is he also a victim? (Opinion)
Washington Post – December 06, 2016
More than two decades ago, Dominic Ongwen was a boy on his way to school in northern Uganda when he was abducted by the brutal rebel group known as the Lord’s Resistance Army and turned into a child soldier. On Tuesday, he took a seat before the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for the first day of a trial in which he is charged with 70 war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, torture and sexual slavery, mostly committed in attacks on camps for internally displaced people.
United Kingdom: Football Association to increase scope of child sex abuse review as Queens Park Rangers in spotlight
KL.FM 96.7 – December 06, 2016
The Football Association is to increase the scope of its investigation into child sex abuse allegations – as another club reveals it is looking into claims about a former employee.
Vatican City: Commission launches child protection website
Catholic News Service – December 06, 2016
The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors has launched a beta version of its website in English and has included its template for local guidelines on preventing sexual abuse, resources for a day of prayer for the victims and survivors as well as a mailing address to contact commission members. The website, protectionofminors.va, eventually will include versions in Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and French, the commission said in a statement Dec. 6.
AR: Legislators seek to overhaul courts’ role in child welfare to benefit of parents
Arkansas Times – December 06, 2016
Four bills filed on Friday by state Sen. Alan Clark (R-Lonsdale) propose significant changes in the Arkansas child welfare system that would generally give more legal protections to parents accused of child maltreatment, along with other relatives, noncustodial parents and “fictive kin.”
AZ: Child abuse reports on decline in Gila Valley
Eastern Arizona Courier – December 04, 2016
Law enforcement officials said reports of child abuse in the Gila Valley are on the decline. But one child advocate said that good news shouldn’t mean people think child abuse is gone.
CA: Mary Graham Children’s Foundation: Helping youths aging out of foster care
Recordnet.com – December 05, 2016
The foundation provides support that enhances life skills and education to local foster youths. We do this through our Trade School & College Scholarship Program by offering financial assistance to foster youths who want to pursue higher education and become successful. The foundation not only gives money for tuition, housing, books and other essentials but provides each youth an adult mentor to guide them through their journey.
CA: Wraparound Program Reduces Juvenile Recidivism by Focusing on Mental Health
Youth Today – December 05, 2016
Orange County’s FSPs are intensive treatment programs that coordinate a unique menu of mental health services for each client to address individualized needs. YOW is one of 12 programs run by CSP that incorporate shelter services, crime victim assistance, youth development programs, comprehensive support for at-risk youth, conflict resolution and community education programs.
Information Gateway Resource: Cross-System Collaboration to Support Mental Health: childwelfare.gov
GA: Columbus judges challenge churches to bring in foster children (Includes video)
WSFA – December 05, 2016
“My own church has started a committee and we are up and running with exactly that. We already have one foster parent couple already identified,” said the Chattahoochee circuit’s presiding juvenile Judge Warner Kennon.
GA: Glynn an anomaly in Georgia foster-care crisis
Goldenisles News – December 04, 2016
As a result of the overwhelming amount of cases, the state support system is stretched thin. Complaints about the quality of foster care in Fulton and DeKalb counties 14 years ago led to the Kenny A. v. Deal case, forcing the state to operate under a consent decree for child services in those counties for 11 years. In a signal that the system might be able to handle the load, improvements led to the state Department of Human Services and the plaintiffs in the lawsuit filed a joint motion in early November in federal district court to adopt an exit plan to come out from under the parameters of the initial 2005 order.
GA: Target addiction to stem foster care crisis (Opinion)
Atlanta Journal-Constitution – November 18, 2016
It’s a tragic story that repeats itself daily in virtually every community across this country. Whether you live in a sprawling urban area or the rural countryside, the undercurrent of addiction not only is devastating the lives of adults and teens but is having a growing impact on innocent children.
KS: Hope for the Holidays program helps youths who have aged out of foster care
Topeka Capital-Journal – December 04, 2016
Many young adults who have aged out of foster care would not receive any gifts during the holiday season if not for the Hope for the Holidays program through Department for Children and Families. About 600 young people are signed up this year, said DCF spokeswoman Theresa Freed.
LA: DCFS looks for better ways to serve (Includes video)
Monroe News Star – December 05, 2016
On Monday in Monroe, Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters asked for input from the public and stakeholders for ways the department can best serve the state’s most fragile families.
LA: State Leaders Meet With Community Partners To Fight Povery and Child Welfare Problems
MyArkLaMiss.com – December 05, 2016
Louisiana’s Department of Children and Families held a community discussion Monday afternoon in Monroe, to find solutions to poverty and child welfare problems in the region. State leaders met with about 75 community partners to get their feedback about where help is needed in Northeast Louisiana.
MO: Grant helps to provide services for at-risk families in Greene County
Springfield News-Leader – December 05, 2016
“The grant was designed to provide a pipeline of trained graduates to work with the Missouri CD in an effort to enhance retention of staff, particularly in Greene County,” said Dr. Mary Ann Jennings, professor of social work, in a press release. “The SSW recruits students to participate and provides specialized courses for grant participants, such as child welfare services, trauma-informed practice and case management.”
NE: Twenty questions on 20 years of vision and drive at the Child Advocacy Center
Lincoln Journal Star – December 05, 2016
Last week, Lynn Ayers marked 20 years as executive director of the Child Advocacy Center, a safe space for child victims of abuse to be interviewed by trained professionals, get medical evaluations and be provided advocacy and support through investigation and prosecution of their cases.
NJ: Child welfare worker indicted for extorting sex from mothers he supervised
NJ.com – December 05, 2016
A former state family services worker has been indicted on charges that he used his position to extort sex from two mothers he supervised during their visitations with their children, authorities said.
NY: NYSED: Memos on schools as safe havens, Child Protective Services regulations and opioid overdose prevention
New York State Center for School Health – December 05, 2016
These important memos have been shared by NYSED with school administrators. They are available on the NYSED website and the NYSCSH website under NYSED Guidelines and Memos.
NY: Parents home-schooling kids probed for ‘educational neglect’
New York Post – December 05, 2016
The Department of Education has been harassing parents who home-school their children, threatening to report them to child welfare for failing to enroll their kids in school even though they have filed the paperwork, a new lawsuit charges.
TN: Governor Haslam launches new foster care initiative
WREG – December 05, 2016
Governor Bill Haslam announced the launch of a new program that aims to encourage more Tennesseans to become foster parents or support those who are. The new initiative is called TN Fosters.
Also: Tennessee program to add foster, adoptive parents: tennessean.com
TX: Family detention centers blocked DHS committee finds family detention centers unnecessary
McAllen Monitor – December 05, 2016
An Austin judge blocked the licensing of two family immigrant detention centers in Texas on Friday following a recommendation from a Department of Homeland Security committee to stop detaining families.
TX: Governor Abbott Attends Grand Opening Of Rees-Jones Center For Foster Care Excellence (Press Release)
Office of the Governor of Texas – December 05, 2016
The Center brings together foster care experts in pediatrics, behavioral health, research and child welfare to provide primary care for children from birth to 18 years of age who live with relatives, foster parents or in group homes. The purpose of the Center is to develop a new, best-practices approach to recovery care.
Also: New Dallas Program to Serve Needs of Foster Care Children (Includes video): New Dallas Program to Serve Needs of Foster Care Children (nbcdfw.com)
Also: New Foster Care Center Looks To Limit Lifetime Impact Of Abuse: New foster care center looks to limit lifetime impact of abuse (dfw.cbslocal.com)
TX: New Texas bill endangers LGBT youth: Behind the legislation that could lead to a surge in anti-gay conversion therapy (Opinion)
Salon – December 05, 2016
Allowing organizations to donate their time and resources to help fix the problem might seem like a necessary and crucial solution to help needy youth, but putting this responsibility in the hands of religious groups may make the issue worse, especially for LGBT minors.
TX: State to hire more child welfare workers
Associated Press – December 03, 2016
Top Republican leaders have approved nearly $150 million in emergency funding to hire 800 new workers at a troubled Texas agency facing huge case backlogs in its effort to protect abused and neglected children.
WA: Fighting Opioid Abuse in Indian Country (Press release)
Pew Charitable Trusts – December 06, 2016
Misty Jones, a member of the Port Gamble S’Klallam tribe, said she realizes she needs to beat her drug habit before she can take care of her children. ‘This time it’s going to be all about Misty and getting clean and not about Misty and getting her kids back,’ she said.
WI: Clarke Square apartment plans endorsed in Milwaukee
Milwaukee Business Journal – December 05, 2016
Those “motivated youths” who are sleeping on couches or moving between family members’ homes could become tenants in two planned apartment buildings with a combined 40 affordable units.
WV: DHHR secretary says drug problems must be solved first
Register-Herald – December 06, 2016
As the upcoming legislative session approaches, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources Secretary Karen Bowling urges lawmakers to remember the importance of prevention, treatment and recovery for residents dealing with substance use disorder.
US: Senators Urge Passage Of Foster Care Reforms To Help Children Affected By Opioid Abuse Epidemic (Opinion)
KRWG – December 05, 2016
U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich joined 23 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to congressional leaders urging them to include strongly supported reforms to the foster care system in any end-of-year budget agreement. The Family First Prevention Services Act would allow states to use federal foster care funds to pay for programs that improve home life, such as mental health services and in-home parenting programs, which are crucial in light of the growing number of children in the foster care system whose families are affected by the opioid abuse epidemic and other substance abuse problems.
Also: Controversial child welfare measure stripped from health reform bill (Opinion): Controversial child welfare measure stripped from health reform bill (baptistnews.com)
US: Some fear proposed rules will gut number of foreign adoptions
Springfield News-Sun – December 04, 2016
Adoptions in U.S. have plummeted because of costs, corruption and restrictions in countries such as Russia.
INTERNATIONAL
Gambia: The Gambia, UNICEF Launch Child Protection Strategy 2016-2020 (Press release)
United Nations Children’s Fund – December 06, 2016
The Islamic Republic of The Gambia recently launched the National Child Protection Strategy 2016-2020, developed with technical and financial support from UNICEF. The Strategy, along with its costed Plan of Action, is the result of a series of consultations and engagements led by the Department of Social Welfare, with critical input from the Child Protection Sub-Committee and a wide range of child protection actors, community members, care-givers and children.
Greece: More Than 1,200 Unaccompanied Child Refugees Waiting for Suitable Accommodations
Greek Reporter Greece – December 02, 2016
More than 1,200 unaccompanied child refugees are on waiting lists for a place in suitable accommodations, an associate of the migration policy ministry Alkis Souliotis said on Friday, at an event organized by the “Doctors of the World” in Athens. In total, about 2,500 unaccompanied children live among the 62,000 refugees and migrants who remain in Greece, with 286 of those living in closed detention centers and another two locked up in police stations, Souliotis said.
| Child airlifted to trauma center after being hit by carWPECA child was airlifted to a trauma center after being hit by a car in a … It is unknown what her relation is to the child is and if she faces any charges. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ginnie Graham: Tulsa at forefront of childhood trauma research after OSU lands major grantTulsa WorldNearly 20 years ago, a groundbreaking study was published linking poor physical and mental health to the number of traumatic experiences a child … Flag as irrelevant | |
| A ‘hidden crisis’: Local leaders call for collaboration to combat child poverty, traumaEureka Times StandardState Senator Mike McGuire talks at a packed town hall meeting on childhood poverty and adverse experiences in Eureka on Thursday night. Shaun … Flag as irrelevant | |
| SBC professionals trained in trauma through $70000 grantShreveport TimesA $70,000 grant awarded to a Caddo Parish Juvenile Services will allow close to 40 child and adolescent service providers to be trained in best … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Regina police dog helps abused children talk about traumaCBC.caMaybe when you hear “police dog,” it brings to mind old TV shows with German shepherds leaping into action, disarming gun-toting bad guys. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Fighting childhood traumas with community partnershipsMail TribuneTo illustrate the impact of what’s known as Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, and the power of overcoming their impact, Peter Buckley tells the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Legislation to Help Calif. Children Suffering from Trauma and Toxic Stress introduced by …California NewswireToxic stress most commonly impacts infants and young children in … “Childhood trauma can have a number of short and long-term impacts on a child’s … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Ambulances equipped with child safety systemsYourErieEMS vehicles in Erie County will now have Pedi-Mate Child Restraint … The emergency and trauma care unit received a check for nearly $12,000 from … Flag as irrelevant | |
| OUR GOOD DEEDS: Local group raises money for K-9 life vestRapid City Journal… has been trained to interview children to gather all of the necessary information with the goal of reducing a child’s trauma from repeated interviews. Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Psychological Trauma of a Multi-Generation WarThe Atlantic“Instead of coming on the trip, the boy went to bury his father,” Muñoz said. “The children have seen such traumas it’s hard for them to talk, at the start … Flag as irrelevant |
| A child’s kryptonite: Silence and traumaShreveport TimesTrauma is not the only thing that can have significant negative consequences for children. So can silence. Children in poverty are exposed to … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Treatment for trauma-affected children and families the focus of new grantCU Boulder News & EventsLeft to right: Sara Reid, MHP research and evaluation manager; Janine D’Anniballe, MHP director of trauma services; Kimberly Shipman, CU Boulder … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Calais Jungle: What will happen to child refugees when they leave?New StatesmanIt is important to remember a child’s trauma extends far beyond the experiences that resulted in them fleeing their homes. The children going to the UK … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Treating trauma could improve disruptive school behavior, study saysShreveport TimesBut once children enroll at Mooretown they tend to stay, said Principal Shelia Gladney. That’s because their teachers understand how trauma, and … Flag as irrelevant | |
| How One Season of Football Affects a Child’s BrainTIMEThe bad effects from concussions can continue years after the trauma, and brain experts say that damage to delicate neurons can also accumulate … Flag as irrelevant | |
| In the dead of nightThe AustralianBut Deng Adut – child soldier turned Sydney lawyer – has turned trauma into …. Before even reaching their destination, he says, the child conscripts … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Conference focuses on traumatized childrenTheReporter.ComThe Solano County Courage Center is hosting a two-day professional development conference for professionals and laypersons working in fields of … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Child migrants taken to Britain: now they need support and psychological careThe Conversation UKHundreds of unaccompanied child asylum seekers are being taken to Britain, … It is important to remember a child’s trauma extends far beyond the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Mercer Co. deputies checked child’s welfare month before deathWHIOMercer County Sheriff’s deputies responded on Aug. 5 to the same home where a 4-year-old boy was found dead with multiple trauma to his body … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Call to reduce abused kids’ traumaCourier MailA LEADING international human-trafficking expert says Australia needs to introduce child advocacy centres for abused children to avoid further trauma … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| As the world watches Calais, how to build children’s resilience to traumaPositive NewsThis rate can rise to 40 per cent or higher if children are traumatised by abuse or neglect, war, being raised in care, or homelessness. Child trauma … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Principles of trauma-informed approaches to child sexual abuseAustralian Institute of Family StudiesReviews the emergence of trauma-informed care in Australia and overseas and how it is being implemented in practice. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Trauma-informed approaches to child sexual abusePublished research, Child Abuse Royal CommissionResults from published reports will inform the work of the Royal Commission and the development of final recommendations. Flag as irrelevant |
| Center’s goal: Minimize trauma in child abuse investigationsMinneapolis Star TribuneIt’s also not a space that reflects doom and gloom, or the trauma that comes with childhood abuse and sexual assault. In a building separate from any …Center’s goal: Minimize trauma in child abuse investigations – AberdeenNews.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Center’s goal: Minimize trauma in child abuse investigationsPost-BulletinKatie Boecker, coordinator of the Child Advocacy Center in St. Cloud, said the center avoids the intimidating and busy atmosphere of a police … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Center’s goal: Minimize trauma in child abuse investigationsWRAL.comSARTELL, Minn., Colorful parrots and toucans, large dragonflies and wide-eyed frogs adorn the lobby and exam rooms at the new Child Advocacy … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Parents May Not Notice Children’s PTSD SymptomsGoodTherapy.org (blog)Three years following a trauma, parents of children with PTSD often failed to recognize their children’s symptoms. Even some parents with PTSD did … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Defense: No evidence of trauma in infant’s deathSt. George Daily SpectrumThe defense in a long-running child homicide trial moved quickly … that injuries inside the baby’s head were the result of “abusive head trauma.”. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Effects of Childhood Trauma on Depression and Suicidality in AdulthoodPsychiatric TimesImmediate and short-term effects of childhood trauma have been a focus of clinical attention. However, recent studies demonstrate the far-reaching … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Hope carved by Colorado Springs law officers into special toys for traumatized childrenColorado Springs GazetteThey will be given to children who have been affected by a traumatic event, including sexual assault and homicides. Made up of two supervisors, … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Trauma of seeing abuse at homeThe Straits TimesGrowing up in a violent household can have the same emotional impact on a child as a car crash or a natural disaster. In fact, social workers from the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Free webinar training on trauma plannedFairbanks Daily News-MinerFAIRBANKS, Trauma 101 training focuses on understanding how trauma impacts the body and the brain, how people adapt to trauma, and what … Flag as irrelevant | |
| In disaster, trauma, dog brings comfortToledo BladeThe county prosecutor’s office hopes to use the dog to support two children … “The idea is that the more at ease the child feels, the more effective the … Flag as irrelevant |
AR: DHS director Gillespie tackling foster care crisis, awaiting state flexibility for Medicaid
Talk Business & Politics – December 04, 2016
Gillespie, appearing on this week’s edition of Talk Business & Politics, contends that the huge spike in foster care cases and maltreated children in Arkansas is not contingent on one overriding factor. “I don’t think anyone can tell you there’s any one single thing that’s at the root of what’s going on. Whenever you have issues like this in society, it’s going to be multi-factor. There’s not one silver bullet that fixes everything,” she said.
CA: LA voters might be asked to help the homeless – by raising taxes (Includes audio)
KPCC – December 01, 2016
L.A. County, looking for millions of dollars to fund its plan to eradicate homelessness, will likely turn to voters for a way to raise the cash.
CA: State Braces For Medi-Cal’s Future Under Trump And The GOP
Pharmacy Choice – December 01, 2016
Critics of the Affordable Care Act argue, however, that the Medicaid program has grown too big and expensive. They also want states to have more autonomy with their Medicaid programs and believe enrollees should become more self-sufficient. “Any agenda to reduce dependency and increase self-sufficiency of those populations, Medicaid needs to be a piece of that,” said Ed Haislmaier, senior research fellow at the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank
CO: Colorado Gives: Rocky Mountain Children’s Law Center Transforms the Lives of Abused and Neglected Children Through Compassion (Press release)
Colorado Bar Association – December 02, 2016
For over thirty years, the Rocky Mountain Children’s Law Center has provided compassionate legal advocacy and clinical services to children who have been abused or neglected. Through a team of legal professionals and social workers, the Children’s Law Center serves at-risk children and considers the whole child with each recommendation regarding the child’s best interest.
FL: Guest column: Florida needs more adoptions, foster families (Opinion)
Florida Times-Union – December 03, 2016
Only six out of 10,000 adults choose to become foster parents, yet hundreds of children throughout Florida can be given a safe home through foster care or adoption. How can you be part of providing stability for these children during the most formative years of their lives?
GA: Child welfare programs go underfunded while foster care population skyrockets (Press release)
Public – December 02, 2016
Finding foster homes for these children has become increasingly difficult. Making it even more difficult, Georgia child welfare programs for kids under state supervision haven’t been getting paid enough.
KS: Staffing issues created DCF abuse report backlog
Topeka Capital-Journal – December 02, 2016
Child abuse and neglect reports piled up in Kansas because of “a severe staffing issue,” a high-ranking state Department for Children and Families official said in a September email.
Also: DCF denies backlog at child abuse reporting center (Press release): publicnow.com
KY: Editorial: State child protectors reduced to begging
Morehead News – December 02, 2016
A current social worker and a former colleague went before a legislative committee recently and used words like “heartbreaking” and “miserable” to describe working conditions in child protection in the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS).
NH: Editorial: Elders cope with caring for grandchildren
Daily Hampshire Gazette – December 02, 2016
Much attention has been focused in recent years on the alarming rise in the number of people addicted to opioids. Rightly so, those involved in health care and law enforcement have focused their efforts on responding to the dangers of overdosing and helping addicts find treatment. But in the background of this epidemic is a group of older people, parents of those struggling with drug problems, who have stepped in to take on a job they never dreamed they would be doing in their 50s, 60s and 70s – assuming the care of their grandchildren.
NV: One View: Shedding light on homeless children living in ‘shadows’ (Includes video) (Opinion)
Reno Gazette-Journal – December 02, 2016
Long-understood and well-documented science tells us children fail to thrive without secure attachments. We also know children lacking consistent, loving bonds suffer poorer outcomes. Rather than focus on expanding our definition of homelessness, we must diligently work to find safe, permanent homes for our children in care.
NY: ‘Hack-a-Thon’ Hopes to Use Tech to Help the City’s Child Welfare Agency Connect Foster Kids With Adoptive Families (Includes video)
NY 1 – December 04, 2016
Coders are working with the Administration for Children’s Services to tackle issues in the foster care system. The goal is to find ways technology can help with the recruitment of parents and communication between social workers and children.
NY: Brooklyn Borough President Launches Multilingual Anti-Child Abuse Effort
Observer – December 03, 2016
In the wake of the discovery of a three-year-old Brooklyn boy with a cracked skull earlier this week and the death of a six-year-old Zymere Perkins a little more than two months ago, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams unrolled a new multilingual outreach campaign to educate people on the signs of child abuse-arguing it is every citizen’s responsibility to identify and intervene in such cases, not just the Administration for Children’s Services.
NY: Missing My Children on the Holidays – Focusing on the future got me through this difficult time of year
Rise Magazine – November 29, 2016
One year ago, Mandell, Alaysia and Diamond went into foster care and I went into a drug program.
NY: Why Child Protective Investigations Can Make Parents Fearful and Put Kids at Risk (Opinion)
Urban Matters – November 23, 2016
I have a friend who recently gave birth and struggles with simple things, like having enough money for Pampers. I told her about a program for low-income families that offers free Pampers, but she denied the help, saying they might call child protective services on her.
OH: Talking to kids about human trafficking
Lima News – December 03, 2016
Concerns about human trafficking are driving a new effort by the Ohio Attorney General to get more schools to incorporate anti-human trafficking instruction in middle and high school classrooms.
OR: State plans to revoke license of troubled Eastern Oregon youth program
Oregonian – December 02, 2016
The Oregon Department of Human Services on Friday threatened the license of Eastern Oregon Academy, near Burns, over instances of sex abuse by a female staffer, the failure to report a youth who’d been left in the wilderness for two hours and poor supervision.
TN: Legislature likely to be asked to reform juvenile justice
Tennessean – December 02, 2016
The state legislature probably will take up some issues related to reforming juvenile justice across the state and how the state handles troubled youth in general. The Juvenile Justice Task Force on Thursday developed a handful of recommendations that will be forwarded to state lawmakers that asks them to consider revisions to how juveniles are treated in Tennessee’s legal system.
TX: State cannot issue child care licenses for family detention centers, judgment finds
My San Antonio – December 04, 2016
“During hearings in May and June, Judge Crump heard testimony from mothers detained at the facilities who testified to the prison-like conditions at the facility, and child welfare and faith leaders who argued that children locked up with their mothers in immigrant family detention camps are not safe, physically or mentally,” a press release from Grassroots Leadership read.
TX: Child Protective Services Refusing to Help Child Crime Victims with Immigration Visas
Texas Observer – December 02, 2016
For the past eight months, Texas Child Protective Services has quietly rejected requests for help from undocumented children who are the victims of crime. In April, the agency abandoned its policy of providing certifications for special immigration visas that protect crime victims who are helping law enforcement in an investigation. Lawyers and advocates who file on behalf of child victims say they were given no explanation for the sudden policy change.
TX: GOP leaders OK funding for hiring new child welfare caseworkers
Associated Press – December 02, 2016
Top Republican leaders have approved nearly $150 million in emergency funding to hire 800 new workers at a troubled Texas agency facing huge case backlogs in its effort to protect abused and neglected children.
Also: Texas Child Protective Services Funding Gets Final OK – With Restrictions: Texas child protective services funding gets final ok restrictions (kut.org)
Also: Leaders OK hiring hundreds of new child welfare workers: Article 06265f14 b8f6 11e6 8686 2fbd49be0cf2 (tdtnews.com)
Also: State to give CPS workers $1,000 a month raise: elpasotimes.com
WI: No resolution to youth prison investigation one year after raid
Chippewa Falls Online – December 04, 2016
U.S. Attorney John Vaudreuil said the investigation “is certainly continuing,” and that federal investigators are still wading through a mountain of interviews and information. Vaudreuil said investigators are putting together a database of events and victims from which to “build a case.” If charges are necessary, they will bring the case to a grand jury, he said.
WV: National Youth Advocate Program boosts foster parenting
Times of West Virginia – December 04, 2016
National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) “in West Virginia has served children and families since 1982,” Burnell said. “Four offices serve as a base of regional services which include an array of therapeutic foster care and (several) home base services for children ages 0-18 and their families.”
US: A Sweeping Reform Of The Foster Care System Is Within Reach But Hanging By A Thread
Huffington Post – December 02, 2016
Responding to an outcry from a sprawling network of group homes in North Carolina, Sen. Richard Burr (R) led a surprise rebellion this week against a sweeping reform of the child welfare system that had already passed the House of Representatives by a unanimous voice vote.
US: Don’t Call Kids Prostitutes – Count the States Protecting Them (Opinion)
Huffington Post – December 02, 2016
I was at first infuriated, then deeply unsettled, by the headline and language of a Washington Post story last month that described two girls between the ages of 12 and 15 who were drugged and forcibly held against their wills as “prostitutes.” Describing children in this way is appalling, and betrays an ignorance of the applicable law and a horrifying insensitivity to the suffering these young survivors endured.
US: The Great and Misunderstood Challenges of Adoption (Opinion)
National Review – December 02, 2016
Adoption is hard. There is no easy path, whatever those who sit in judgment of adoptive families might think. As my pastor says, every single adoption begins with brokenness. Every single one. In the best case, a mother voluntarily gives away her own child, which is heart-rending even when done for the purest of reasons.
Add Information Gateway resource: Lifelong Impact of Adoption: childwelfare.gov
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Child protection wait times will be cut from months to weeks: judge
CBC News – December 05, 2016
Changes are coming within Manitoba’s court system that would shorten the length of time child protection matters take to get to court. A new scheduling model aims to hear cases within weeks rather than months. The changes were delivered in a speech by Chief Justice Glenn Joyal on Friday at a child protection conference.
India: Child Welfare Committee asked to expedite adoption process
Pioneer – December 04, 2016
There were over a dozen couples, some of them travelled from Sweden and Malta, who embarked on a new journey of life where they are all set to experience the parenthood. They felt proud to share their joys of adoption and seek blessings from Justice D N Patel, Executive Chairman of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA), the chief guest of the programme.
Ireland: Children with intellectual disabilities discriminated against by Child and Family Agency Tusla – report claims
Irish Mirror – December 04, 2016
They also deemed working with Tusla “incredibly frustrating” at times. The damming report also highlighted concerns for the safety of children with intellectual disabilities.
United Kingdom: Britain shocked by growing soccer child-abuse scandal
Yahoo – December 03, 2016
What began last month as a harrowing account of child abuse suffered by a former professional English soccer player has lifted the lid on what could be one of the worst pedophile scandals Britain has ever known.
Also: South Wales Police begins inquiry into allegation of child abuse in football: South wales police begun inquiry (walesonline.co.uk)
United Kingdom: DfE report proposes ‘forced privatisation’ of child protection services
Children & Young People Now – December 02, 2016
Councils should be compelled to outsource children’s services including child protection work as part of efforts to improve standards, a government-commissioned report has suggested.
Study: The potential for developing the capacity and diversity of children’s social care services in England: LaingBuisson report December (gov.uk)
AR: More than 10,000 Arkansas children found maltreated at home in fiscal year 2016
Talk Business & Politics – November 30, 2016
More than 10,000 children were found to have been maltreated at home in fiscal year 2016, while 24% of the 35,493 maltreatment reports to the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline were found to be true, according to a report presented to legislators Wednesday (Nov. 30).
Report: humanservices.arkansas.gov
AR: State Capitol in review – Nov. 30, 2016
Press Argus-Courier – November 30, 2016
Adding 228 employees is one of several strategies proposed by the Division of Children and Family Services to improve the state’s child welfare system, which division officials say is in crisis.
AZ: Children’s Deaths: Why Numbers Of Children’s Suicide And Deaths From Maltreatment Are Increasing At An Alarming Rate (Includes video)
Parent Herald – November 30, 2016
AZ Central focuses on reasons why youngsters are committing suicides in Arizona. Children under 18 years of age comprise 74 percent of total suicides and most of them were of boys. The underlying reasons behind these suicides were drinking or drug addictions, family problems and parent’s divorces.
Report: Cfr annual report (azdhs.gov)
CA: Grant to Fuel Child Welfare Journalist’s Investigations in California (Press release)
PRLog – December 01, 2016
Jeremy Loudenback, a journalist focused on child welfare, has been awarded a grant from The Fund for Investigative Journalism that will propel his efforts to investigate child welfare reform in California.
CT: CHH child abuse investigation team awarded re-accreditation
The Litchfield County Times – December 01, 2016
The Center for Youth and Families in Torrington which provides all of the Child and Family Behavioral Health Outpatient services for Charlotte Hungerford Hospital has been awarded re-accreditation from the National Children’s Alliance after an evaluation process that took place in June of 2016 in the Child Advocacy Center.
IA: Proposal: Cocaine, heroin & synthetic drug use could lead to child abuse assessments (Includes video)
KGAN – November 30, 2016
The workgroup hopes next session, lawmakers will take up their recommendations, which includes changing current Iowa law to include cocaine, heroin and synthetic drug allegations as factors that could warrant a child abuse investigation.
IN: State commends prosecutor’s office for child support work
Pharos-Tribune – November 30, 2016
The Cass County Prosecutor’s Office continues to see success in its efforts to ensure child support for local youth, according to state data. It was the most improved in the state this year in cases in which child support was established, the data indicate.
MD: Youth homelessness in Baltimore higher than previously thought
The Baltimore Sun – November 30, 2016
More than 1,400 young people under the age of 25 were unaccompanied by a parent or guardian, without a safe, stable, affordable place to live, according to data collected by homeless advocates, service providers, the University of Maryland, the city and other stakeholders.
NY: ‘What Did They Do?’ Officials Question ACS Response in Jaden Jordan Case
DNAinfo – December 01, 2016
Law enforcement officials probing the nearly fatal beating of a 3-year-old boy are questioning why a city child welfare caseworker – and not a trained investigator or the NYPD – was called days before the tragedy to check out a tip that the toddler was being kept in a dog cage by a Brooklyn man, DNAinfo New York has learned.
NY: A Better, But Still Broken, NYC Child Welfare System Means Another Child Murdered (Opinion)
The Huffington Post – November 30, 2016
As CEO’s of three of the oldest and largest charities serving New York City’s children, we are determined to learn any lesson we can to protect children from harm. We stand with all New Yorkers in demanding accountability, and we want to see pragmatic and meaningful reform that truly protects children.
OR: Top takeaways from Gov. Kate Brown’s $20.8 billion budget proposal
The Oregonian – December 01, 2016
Child welfare: Brown wants $13 million more to raise reimbursement rates for foster parents. Those rates haven’t been adjusted to the cost of living for a decade, and the state now estimates they cover less than half the actual cost of caring for foster children. Brown also wants to spend $7.3 million helping the Department of Human Services ease a backlog of background checks.
OR: Turning a page for foster kids (Correction)
The Dalles Chronicle – November 30, 2016
In 2015, there were 174 foster children in Wasco County, according to a report by the Department of Human Services. The majority of these children were taken into state custody due to parental neglect.
PA: Judge rules against Penn State on Mike McQueary whistleblower claim; $5 million in additional damages ordered
PennLive – November 30, 2016
A senior judge has found in favor of Mike McQueary on the last pending count of the former Penn State assistant football coach’s whistebower action against the university. Gavin found that McQueary had shown he was treated differently from other PSU employees after it became publicly known that he was a witness against Penn State administrators in the Jerry Sandusky child sex abuse case.
RI: DCYF Reduces Group Home Use, Lightens Caseworker Load, But Challenges Remain
Rhode Island Public Radio – November 30, 2016
State lawmakers continue their oversight of the state’s child welfare agency. At a hearing Tuesday night, Department of Children, Youth, and Families director Jamia McDonald said her organization has made progress.
TN: Raising happy children: Local agency teaches stressed parents how to avoid child abuse
Chattanooga Times Free Press – December 01, 2016
Prevent Child Abuse Tennessee was created three decades ago to be a resource for parents – especially new and young mothers – but it serves anyone who wants help.
TX: Lawmakers on board with emergency funding for child protection
The Texas Tribune – December 01, 2016
Texas lawmakers said Thursday they’re willing to give $150 million in emergency funding to the embattled Department of Family and Protective Services to help the agency begin addressing gaps in its ability to protect vulnerable and abused children.
Also: CPS raises, new hiring set to take effect after state leaders give OK: star-telegram.com
TX: Goodfellows: Children’s Home of Lubbock giving hope to kids in need
Lubbock Avalanche-Journal – November 30, 2016
“What they do at a children’s home is they give them hope,” Morin said. “I just think we, as a community, need to reach out to those children that don’t have what our kids have.”
WA: Professor to testify before Congress about foster care
WSU News (Washington State Univerity) – December 01, 2016
Youth in the foster care system receive little support once they turn 18, especially when it comes to pursuing postsecondary education.
WA: State to combine child services programs into one department
Real Change – November 30, 2016
A commission released its recommendations to fix Washington state’s faulty system that delivers services to children and families by breaking up the agency out of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) and creating a new, independent department addressing the needs of children 21 years old and younger.
WV: Lack of Behavioral Health Care for Young People Limiting State Progress (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 01, 2016
Lack of behavioral health care for children may be undermining West Virginia’s efforts to reduce truancy, cut juvenile incarceration and improve foster care, advocates say.
US: Alumni Perspectives: Bringing awareness to adoption in the U.S.
The Stamford Crimson – December 01, 2016
Of the approximate 150,000 adoptions in the United States every year, about 14 percent are from other countries. However, in the minds of many Americans, international adoptions make up the majority of adoptions. There is very little focus on the 65,000 private adoptions handled by adoption agencies each year, but I would argue that they are some of the most important.
US: Indian Child Welfare Act could come under scrutiny of Supreme Court
Northern California Record – December 01, 2016
The U.S. Supreme Court has been asked to hear a case related to the removal of a 1/64 Native American girl from her potential adoptive family in accordance with the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). The U.S. Supreme Court was asked to hear the case after California’s high court refused to do so.
US: Trump’s plan intended to reduce high cost of child care through tax breaks
EdSource – December 01, 2016
Tax deductions and rebates are at the heart of President-elect Donald Trump’s child care policy proposal, which would offer the most help to high-income families, some help to middle-income taxpayers and less to low-income parents.
US: 21st Century Cures: A real plan for our national health (Opinion)
The Hill – November 30, 2016
21st Century Cures is a real plan that provides states with much needed resources to address the heroin and opioid epidemic in our communities.
US: Data show youth aging out of foster care face greater barriers to adult success (Press release)
U.S. Administration for Children and Families – November 30, 2016
Newly released data show that youth aging out of foster care are faring well in some outcome measures but a significant number experience homelessness, early parenthood and lack of medical insurance. By age 21, young people surveyed reported positive gains in many protective factors, yet there is evidence that current and former foster youth continue to face challenges that can be barriers to adult independence.
Information Gateway resource: Transition to Adulthood and Independent Living: Independent (childwelfare.gov)
US: Why is it so expensive to adopt a child?
The Washington Post – November 30, 2016
Across the world, there are thousands of children in need of homes. In America, there are thousands of families looking for children to adopt. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Until you look at the price tag.
INTERNATIONAL
Canada: Canada says it isn’t liable for the removal of Indigenous children from homes in the Sixties Scoop
VICE News – December 01, 2016
The Canadian government says it isn’t liable for any loss of identity or tradition, and on Thursday Crown lawyers asked a judge to dismiss the lawsuit. “I heard from leadership that spoke of taking this out of court,” said Brown Martel, a member of the Temagami First Nation near Kirkland Lake, Ont., who was 9 years old when she was taken from her home in 1972. “But actions speak louder than words.”
Canada: Why Adopt? An Interview with Shaikh Faraz Rabbani on the Subject of Adoption in Islam
MuslimLink – December 01, 2016
November is Adoption Awareness Month. Throughout the month, Children’s Aid Societies across Ontario spread the message that every child deserves to have a forever family’ in the hopes of encouraging more families to open their homes to children in care.
International: New Guidelines for the Investigation of Sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy Launched
Newswise – November 30, 2016
The guidelines, Sudden unexpected death in infancy and childhood, have been published by The Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) and The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and draws on research by Dr Peter Sidebotham and Dr Joanna Garstang from the University’s Warwick Medical School.
| Infant death audit to bring down IMRThe HinduTo bring down Infant Mortality Rate to single digit, an Infant Death Audit will be put into practice by the members of the State unit of the Indian Academy … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant Death At Napa Daycare Center Under InvestigationCBS LocalNAPA (CBS SF), Police in Napa on Thursday announced an investigation into the death of an infant at a daycare center, according to authorities.Death Of Infant At Napa Daycare Center Under Investigation – Patch.comFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant death near Edinburg ruled a homicideMonitorNEAR EDINBURG – The death of a 7-month old girl Monday has been ruled a homicide after an autopsy revealed the baby died of blunt force trauma …Hidalgo Co. Father Facing Capital Murder Charge in Baby’s Death – KRGVFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Panel: No proof against doctor in Govandi infant’s deathHindustan TimesThe committee investigating the death of an infant boy from Govandi, whose parents said the baby died after a doctor allegedly refused treatment as … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Cause of Napa infant’s death at day care still being investigatedKRON4.comNAPA (BCN), The Napa County coroner’s office is still investigating the cause of an 8-month-old boy’s death at a day care home Wednesday. Flag as irrelevant | |
| APD searches for fugitive in infant’s deathAmarillo.comPolice and the mother of an infant who died in August are asking for the public’s help as they search for Celia Nicole Camacho, 25, who has been …Charges Brought Against Babysitter After Death of Four-Month-Old – MyHighPlainsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Officials investigating infant’s death at Lake Mead National Recreation AreaKTNV Las Vegas26, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area Interagency Communication Center received a call, reporting that an infant was unresponsive and not …Infant dies during Lake Mead camping outing – Las Vegas Review-JournalInfant dies during Lake Mead camping outing – Las Vegas Review-JournalInfant dies during camping outing at Lake Mead – Las Vegas Review-JournalFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| The Kern County Sheriff’s Department is investigating an infant death in Rosamond.Kern Golden EmpireThey performed CPR until medical aid arrived, and the infant was taken to … KCSO says it is standard procedure to investigate any infant death.Death of baby in Rosamond under investigation – The Bakersfield CalifornianInfant found not breathing in Rosamond later dies at Antelope Valley Hospital – KERO 23ABC NewsFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant’s Death Inspires Family To Give Back During HolidaysCBS LocalROWLETT (CBSDFW.COM) – After the death of a Rowlett infant, the family wants to honor their son through a legacy of giving and helping children in … Flag as irrelevant | |
| New deal offered to Brooklyn father accused in infant’s deathNorwich BulletinThe night before the infant’s death, Hartshorn, who told police he was drunk, said he noticed one of the prescription tablets dissolving in the baby’s … Flag as irrelevant | |
| WEB | |
| Sudden Infant Death SyndromeJAMA NetworkThis review examines the current literature on sudden infant death syndrome and summarizes known risk factors, protective factors, and … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant death conviction overturnedMSN.comAileen Smith lost her son in a crash four years ago. Flag as irrelevant | |
| Population trends in sudden infant death syndromeNuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology – University of OxfordPublications; Population trends in sudden infant death syndrome. Population trends in sudden infant death syndrome. Ponsonby A-L., Dwyer T., … Flag as irrelevant |
| Local Sudden Infant Death Cases on the Rise in MarylandNBC4 WashingtonAnthony Boston is a proud father with a distinction he wouldn’t wish on any parent. “I was the last one to see my child alive,” he said, describing a cold …Reducing the Risk of SIDS: Recommendations From the CDC and NIH – NBC4 WashingtonUniversity of Calgary researchers one step closer to understanding SIDS risk factors – Marketwired (press release)University of Calgary researchers one step closer to understanding SIDS risk factors – BenzingaFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Defense: No evidence of trauma in infant’s deathSt. George Daily SpectrumThe defense in a long-running child homicide trial moved quickly Wednesday to sustain its arguments that the deceased infant at the center of the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Local rate for infant deaths above state averageMyDaytonDailyNewsMaliaka English is hoping to bring her infant daughter, Isabella, home from the hospital for Christmas, still several weeks earlier than her expected due … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Father of suspect in infant death speaks outFox 4The father of a man accused of beating an infant to death said his son is … The death investigation quickly turned into a homicide investigation after …Caretaker charged with Infant’s death – Fox 4Minority neighborhoods in Wyandotte County facing alarming number of health problems – KSHBFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Sacramento man convicted of murder in infant’s death, mother acquittedSacramento Bee21 to find the infant’s mother, Davonna Rae Byrd, not guilty of murder, involuntary manslaughter and assault charges in the child’s death. Byrd, who …Sac DA: Man convicted of killing infant – KCRA SacramentoFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Stark County’s infant mortality rate improved in 2015Massillon IndependentThe rate of deaths among infants in their first year of live dropped to the lowest level in at least four years, but health officials say to hold off celebrating.St. Louis nonprofit calls on volunteers to help prevent infant mortality – St. Louis Public RadioNumber of Ohio infant deaths rise in 2015 – Delphos HeraldFull Coverage Flag as irrelevant | |
| Baby Dies of Vicks VapoRub Poisoning? : snopes.comsnopes.comA viral Facebook post claimed that a baby died in his sleep after his mother applied Vicks VapoRub to soothe his fever, but we found no evidence the … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Witnesses testify in hearing for baby sitter accused in infant’s deathTheReporter.ComDetails emerged Wednesday in Solano County Superior Court in the case against a 25-year-old Travis Air Force Base baby sitter, who’s accused in … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Yakima infant death probedKVEWAn autopsy will be performed Tuesday on a toddler who was found dead Monday by his parents after a dresser had fallen on him. The discovery … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Defendant pleads guilty in infant deathMaryville Daily ForumNicholas Levi Bradshaw, 27, pleaded guilty Monday in Nodaway County Circuit Court to a felony charge of first degree involuntary manslaughter in … Flag as irrelevant | |
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| Woman faces charges for infant’s deathMadison PressCharges have been filed against a private daycare provider in London for the death of an infant. Jessica Carter, 35, of London, was caring for … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Cambridge woman enters guilty pleas in connection with infant’s deathYourRadioPlace.comIsabella Tipton to serve time for involuntary manslaughter, endangering children. CAMBRIDGE, Ohio, A Cambridge woman charged in connection … Flag as irrelevant | |
| Infant death case set for spring trialMadison PressA London woman charged in the death of a 7-month-old baby boy intends to take the case to trial, it seems. Jessica Carter, 35, was arraigned in … Flag as irrelevant |
AZ: Foster education initiative seeks to improve academic achievement of Arizona students in foster care
Mesa Independent – November 30, 2016
Arizona students in the foster care system are consistently underperforming academically. This previously undocumented achievement gap is reported in the 2012-13 report on Arizona’s Invisible Achievement Gap by WestEd.
CA: PBS SoCal Launches “To Foster Change” – a Public Awareness Initiative about Southern California’s Foster Youth (Press release)
Business Wire – November 30, 2016
PBS SoCal today launched “To Foster Change” – a public media initiative aimed at fostering change in the realities and life outcomes for Southern California’s foster youth. The campaign launches with three public awareness spots in which foster youth tell their own real stories of challenge, hope and success.
DC: Professor earns $3.2 million to study environmental impact on child health
The GW Hatchet (George Washington University) – November 30, 2016
A psychology professor is studying adopted children to better understand how children’s environments can impact their health. Jody Ganiban, a professor of clinical and developmental psychology, along with two faculty members at other institutions, received a $3.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to conduct research on the genetic and environmental factors on childhood development.
FL: For National Adoption Month, a look at some local businesses that extended employees’ paid parental leave
Orlando Business Journal – November 30, 2016
As National Adoption Month comes to a close, we reflected on local employers who’ve made an impact in the lives of employees who adopt. While parents often can never get enough time with a newly adopted child, they savor every moment of their time off from work to make the adjustment to the addition to their household and to get them settled in and comfortable.
FL: Report reveals high turnover and heavy case loads for Hillsborough child welfare workers
Tampa Bay Times – November 30, 2016
A state investigation into the death of a Tampa infant has raised concerns that many child welfare workers in Hillsborough County are overburdened. This summer, at least 40 percent of case managers working for agencies hired by state contractor Eckerd Kids were responsible for more than 25 children, according to a report into the death of Miracle Collins, an 8-month-old who died July 19 in state care.
FL: Report: More kids in foster care due to parental drug use (Includes video)
WBBH – November 30, 2016
A new report reveals drug users are turning to illegal street drugs and losing their children to the state. Between 2013 and 2015, Florida’s foster care population increased by 24 percent.
IN: New study finds child abuse and neglect on the rise in Indiana (Includes video)
WTHI – November 30, 2016
A new report by the Indiana Office of Court Services says the number of child abuse cases in Indiana have doubled over the past ten years. “It’s exceptionally concerning when you’re talking about raising children in communities that you want them to be healthy, thriving adults,” said Susie’s Place Founder and Executive Director, Emily Perry. “When they don’t have a healthy foundation, what does that mean about our future?”
LA: Former child abuse victim fulfills his dream to give back (Includes video)
KATC – November 30, 2016
Elijah Evans knows first hand the cruelty of child abuse. Now, he’s using that story to give back to his community. He created an organization, “No Use for Abuse,” to help children who, like him, have suffered child abuse.
LA: Local organizations work to improve “F” grade for premature births (Includes video)
The Shreveport Times – November 30, 2016
Louisiana has received another failing grade for its number of premature births on the March of Dimes annual report card. Caddo Parish has the highest premature birth rate in the state.
ME: Adoption Angels, Part III (Includes video)
WAGM – November 30, 2016
In 2015 alone 870 children came into DHHS custody in the state of Maine. That is in addition to the children already in care. The need for foster parents is high in the state of Maine especially with the drug epidemic effecting all kinds of families. “As the drug problem gets worse there is more of a need for foster homes, because we are seeing some neglect and abuse going on with kids who have really never had that before,”
Adoption Angels, Part I: Adoption Angels Part I (wagmtv.com) Adoption Angels, Part II: Adoption Angels Part I (wagmtv.com)
MI: Child abuse registry advocates make case to Lansing lawmakers (Includes video)
WJBK – November 30, 2016
Emotional testimony in Lansing as lawmakers work on a potential child abuse registry.
MI: CPS worker says colleagues not to blame for child’s death (Includes video) (Opinion)
WJBK – November 30, 2016
Earlier this year, a toddler’s body was found decomposing at an apartment in Detroit. His mother was later located at a hospital where she had gone for mental treatment. The tragic case lead to charges against two workers from Child Protective Services. Now, another CPS worker is weighing in, saying the child’s death isn’t the fault of the colleagues. The CPS worker puts the blame on their working conditions – and some of those problems have been well documented. Others, not so much.
MN: Hennepin County deserves child protection help: Pilot Project (Opinion)
The Minneapolis StarTribune – November 30, 2016
Tragic injuries and deaths among children supposedly shielded by Minnesota’s county-administered child protection system were much in the news in 2014 and 2015. Yet they were only the most heartbreaking traces of a less visible problem: In the past decade, the number of children experiencing crises requiring government intervention has grown at a galloping pace.
MO: A Journey into the Experience of a Foster Child (Includes audio)
KSMU – November 30, 2016
An organization that offers help and support for foster and adoptive parents, Foster Adopt Connect, recently gave local officials a glimpse of what it’s like to be a foster child. KSMU’s Michele Skalicky has more.
NJ: Family Service Association raises money to help others
Press of Atlantic City – November 30, 2016
Torrina Bennett-Michael, chief development officer of Family Service Association, has seen the good her organization can do with her own eyes.
NJ: Special advocates needed to help children in foster care
NJ.com – November 30, 2016
Every year there are more than 100,000 reports of child abuse or neglect in New Jersey. Of these children, more than 9,000 are removed from their homes annually because the Court has found it to be too dangerous for them to remain in their homes. In an effort to address these children’s many needs, Court Appointed Special Advocates of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties (CASA SHaW) recruits, screens, trains, and supervises community volunteers to act as advocates in court for children living in foster care.
NY: Sen. Ritchie ‘disappointed’ at governor’s veto of tax credit for special needs adoptions
North Country Now – November 30, 2016
State Senator Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, says she is “disappointed” with Governor Andrew Cuomo’s veto of legislation she sponsored that would have provided a tax deduction for parents who adopt a child with special needs.
OH: Foster care agency funds may have been used for gambling, vacations
Dayton Daily News – November 30, 2016
Investigators who seized computers and boxes of documents during a Nov. 23 search of the nonprofit Isaiah’s Place were looking into allegations of conversion of at least $100,000 in agency funds for personal uses, according to court documents.
TX: Faith-based foster care reforms could fail LGBT youth
The Texas Tribune – November 30, 2016
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick recently unveiled a statewide initiative for faith-based organizations to recruit foster and adoptive families for children in state care. While any effort to ease the strains on the foster care system and its charges should be applauded, this particular strategy will likely produce unintended consequences by adversely impacting the permanency outcomes of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth in the foster care system.
TX: Fort Worth officer fired for mishandling child abuse cases (Includes video)
KDFW – November 30, 2016
Police say Dennis Hutchins was fired last summer for mishandling multiple child abuse cases. “We’ve discovered there were several cases where the detective dropped the ball,” said Sgt. Marc Povero, Fort Worth Police Dept. “We’ve done our due diligence to go back through all the cases not properly handled or mishandled and we’re re-investigating those cases, this was one of them.”
TX: Turning a page for foster kids
The Dallas Chronicle – November 30, 2016
In 2015, there were 174 foster children in Wasco County, according to a report by the Department of Human Services. The majority of these children were taken into state custody due to parental neglect.
TX: House Speaker Joe Straus vows to reverse cuts to disabled kids’ therapy services
The Texas Tribune, KCEN – November 29, 2016
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus said Tuesday that lawmakers in the Capitol’s lower chamber would seek to restore funding for disabled children’s in-home therapy services during the upcoming legislative session, potentially reversing the state’s course in an emotionally-fraught, year-long legal battle.
WY: Program helps youth live life beyond drugs
The Sheridan Press – November 30, 2016
Abbott, a product of the foster and out-of-home care systems, now serves as the service coordinator for Independent Living. Abbott beat the odds and transfers her experience and knowledge to Sheridan’s young people in need of help.
US: Celebrating LGBTQ Adoptive Families During National Adoption Month
Human Rights Campaign – December 01, 2016
In connection with HRC’s celebration of Transgender Awareness Week we were thrilled to share the story of Quinn, a transgender parent in Florida, and his partner who together adopted Tristan. We also shared the story of Deasia and Nikki, the first same-sex couple to wed in Guam, who adopted a transgender child after first serving as the child’s foster parents.
Information Gateway resource: Working With LGBTQ Families in Adoption: Working with lgbtq families in adoption (childwelfare.gov)
US: Too Many Kids, Not Enough Foster Parents (Includes audio)
Public News Service – December 01, 2016
Country singer Jimmy Wayne has a message he’s sharing across the country – thousands of children need help, and he was one of them. Years after he was taken in, Wayne has written songs and a book on the topic, and also appears at public events around the country in an effort to recruit more foster parents.
US: Open Adoption Is More Complicated Than Picture Painted by Media, the Industry (Opinion)
Rewire – November 30, 2016
With National Adoption Awareness Month drawing to a close, we urge viewers to reconsider our culture’s portrayals of adoption. The continual framing of adoption as an unqualified good is not only inaccurate, but also damaging.
US: Tackling child abuse linked to faith or belief
Health Canal – November 30, 2016
Only 33% of professionals and members of community and faith-based organisations are confident they could identify indicators of faith or belief linked child abuse, a new study has revealed. Report: files.ccpas.co.uk
INTERNATIONAL
India: Child labour, trafficking- key concerns of ‘Vulnerable Children’ in India
ANI – December 01, 2016
A consolidated report on the situation of vulnerable and excluded children from India, comprising 28 states and four union territories, was recently presented at the National Conference on ‘Plan For Every Child’ for Children in Difficult Circumstances.
New Zealand: Child Abuse and Family Structure (Press release)
Scoop Independent News – November 30, 2016
The Conservative Party of New Zealand welcomes the report from Lindsay Mitchell on Child Abuse & Family Structure. Whilst the report only confirms what we were already aware of, that family structure is vitally important to the welfare of children, we hope that it will initiate discussion and bring change in the way we promote families.
Report: The Impact of Family Structure and Family change on Child Outcomes: A Personal Reading of the Research Literature: 24 impact of family structure and family change on child outcome p111 (msd.govt.nz)
Rwanda: Mobile phones to support child protection initiatives
The New Times – December 01, 2016
The National Commission for Children (NCC), in partnership with Tigo Rwanda, has given child protection volunteers (Inshuti z’umuryango) in Muhanga District mobile phones to facilitate their work.
United Kingdom: Hundreds in foster care to become eligible adolescents
The Irish Times – December 01, 2016
Hundreds of children currently in foster care will be eligible for adoption under the proposed legislation before the Dail, according to Minister for Children and Youth Affairs Dr. Katherine Zappone.
Republished from the Kids At Risk Action blog as written. No images from the original corpus appear in any form.
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