foster care

During the tenure of Jennifer Tidball, the Department of Social Services faced criticism over its handling of reports of abuse and neglect at unlicensed youth residential facilities, and its failure to report missing foster kids.

Tuesday’s hearing was only the latest example of legislative criticism of the Department of Social Services.

Gov. Laura Kelly created the Division of the Child Advocate after lawmakers failed to do so.

The report says 978 children went missing from foster care in the state in 2019.

Years after preliminary guidance from the Kansas Department for Children and Families, the state has made no progress in requiring that LGBTQ foster children are placed "in homes that respect their identities."

The Department for Children and Families says it works to make sure gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender foster children end up in welcoming homes, but nothing in state law requires special consideration.

State funds are allowing FosterAdopt Connect to increase its programs including a drop-in center for homeless and at-risk teens.

Gov. Mike Parson signed legislation altering when providers are mandated to report child abuse, stating that the fact that a teen is unaccompanied is, in and of itself, not sufficient basis anymore.

Some of the new opportunities for support expire in September. Others extend a year beyond that. People can contact DCF to inquire about their eligibility.

Trained advocates provide support and resources for young Kansans about to face life on their own.

Glickman, who also served as U.S. secretary of agriculture, tells stories from his new memoir, and the organization helping Kansas teens aging out of the state foster care system.

Aviva joined KCUR in 2019, impressing her colleagues with her work ethic and strength of purpose.