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The Death of Thomas Valva: Almost five years later, we still don’t know the truth

Child Welfare Monitor

New York law requires local departments of social services to investigate all fatalities from maltreatment. The states Office of Children and Family Services is required to review each local fatality investigation and issue its own report within six months of the local investigation.

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The fundamental misconception at the heart of the Family First Act

Child Welfare Monitor

States had other sources of federal reimbursement for these programs, such as Title IV-B, the Social Services Block Grant, and TANF. But above all, these services were funded by Medicaid, a federal entitlement program that receives the same federal match as Title IV-E.

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The tragic life and death of Gavin Peterson: Utah’s statement leaves many questions unanswered

Child Welfare Monitor

On October 10, the Utah Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) finally released a statement summarizing its involvement with Gavin Peterson, who died on July 9, 2024 at the age of 12. Gavin’s father, stepmother, and older brother are awaiting trial on reckless child abuse homicide, among other charges.

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In child welfare, where do ethics reviews come from?

NCCPR Child Welfare Blog

A document from the California Department of Social Services indicates the agency was appropriately appalled by the “ethics review.” An excellent story in The Imprint reveals that, after extensive consultation with an impressive and diverse group of people, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has pulled the plug.

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Bidding Farewell to Three Special People

Beyond Advocacy

Kamerman was my professor during my doctoral studies at Columbia University School of Social Work. She taught me much of what I know about the welfare state and providing social services in the United States. I attended NABSW conferences at his behest, where he introduced me to many exemplary colleagues. Mario Cuomo.

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NCCPR news and commentary round-up, week ending April 26, 2022

NCCPR Child Welfare Blog

She writes: Mandated reporting, therefore, drives many family caregivers from the very people who are most equipped to support them. It deters families from seeking needed assistance and weakens the capacity of teachers, doctors, and social service workers to nurture children’s well-being.

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Redefining “Home” so Migrant Families Can Access Early Childhood Services

Brightpoint

Our home visiting staff can regularly meet with families, creating the start of a community for these parents and giving them hope that even in the face of great trauma, they can nurture their children. By meeting families where they are we can remove barriers to accessing essential social services for our most vulnerable families.