There are many reasons why children can no longer be cared for by their parents. Parents may have a substance use disorder, mental illness, incarceration, or perhaps have even died. Placement with a family member who can provide safety, permanence, and well-being is preferred over placement with someone who has no connections to the child. The Department of Children’s Services has an obligation to minimize the impact of trauma on children removed from their parents. Often trauma of separation is reduced when children are placed with relatives. It is in everybody’s best interest if caregivers know the legal options and support services that are available to help them.
Read the full report here.
