Children First for Oregon

Oregon Foster Care Improves in Latest Federal Review

Yesterday the Oregonian released a story, Oregon Foster Care Improves in Latest Federal Review, discussing Oregon’s completion of 6 key federal requirements for the safety and well-being of children in foster care. These requirements included returning foster children to their families sooner, reducing abuse and maltreatment, and moving children less frequently while they’re in foster care.

We are proud to recognize that the Vice President of Children First for Oregon’s youth program, the Oregon Foster Youth Connection (OFYC), is interviewed in the story, highlighting challenges youth face in state foster care. You can hear more from Nicole by watching her recent video.

Children First commends the Children, Adults and Families Division of DHS for taking the difficult steps necessary to meet the federal requirements, but we know there is still a long way to go.

Last May, during National Foster Care Month, we released our 2009 Essay and Policy Recommendations, Keeping Children Safe: Improving Oregon’s Child Welfare System. This essay highlights 9 policy recommendations that CFFO believes will make further impact on keeping children safely in their homes, improving the experience of foster care, and ensuring that youth aging out of the system at age 18 have the support they need to successfully transition to adulthood.

Individuals, lawmakers and community leaders all play a role in building a safer future for children and a stronger future for families. By continuing effective efforts that keep kids safe, Oregon can continue to focus on its core values and can be a national leader in child welfare issues.

Thank you for the role you play in making Oregon a better place, and for supporting Children First for Oregon.