Governor Henry McMaster and federal officials from the U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) gathered at the Statehouse yesterday to announce South Carolina’s participation in “A Home for Every Child.” This national initiative seeks to address a critical shortage of foster homes and improve outcomes for children within the welfare system.
The program focuses on improving the ratio of available licensed foster homes to the number of children in state care. National data indicates a significant gap, with only 57 licensed homes available for every 100 children entering the system. The initiative aims to close this divide by streamlining the licensing process, improving foster parent retention, and prioritizing kinship care, where children are placed with extended family members.
Beyond recruitment, the initiative emphasizes reducing the need for foster care through community-based prevention and family preservation services. By strengthening these pathways, officials hope to prevent unnecessary entries into the system while ensuring those who do enter have a stable, local placement. Governor McMaster noted that the partnership aligns with the state’s ongoing reforms and a broader federal commitment to improving child welfare metrics.
S.C. Department of Social Services Director Tony Catone highlighted the specific need for homes capable of supporting older youth, siblings, and children with complex medical needs. The goal is to ensure that every county has enough available homes so children can remain in their own communities during times of crisis.
South Carolina’s entry into the program builds on progress made through the Michelle H. Federal Settlement Agreement, focusing on safety and permanency. Residents interested in fostering or supporting local families are encouraged to visit heartfeltcalling.org for more information.
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