There has been a growing need to further reduce the number of young people placed in congregate care settings. Recent federal legislative proposals seek to reduce reliance on congregate care placement of foster youth. The members of the National Foster Youth and Alumni Policy Council are interested in ensuring the perspective of young people who have firsthand experience in congregate care is considered by policy makers, child welfare administrators and professionals, and advocates as policies regarding congregate care placements are shaped.
The Council reviewed previous recommendations, evaluated key research publication on the outcomes of congregate care placements, and conducted round table discussions with alumni who have experience in congregate care settings in order to establish these priorities.
The term ‘congregate care’ is used to describe a long list of placement types to include shelters, specialized groups homes, and residential treatment facilities. Council members reflected on their varying experiences in congregate care and members unanimously agree with following priority statements:
A. States should make efforts to prevent disruptions and ensure placement in congregate care is appropriate
B. Establishing lifelong connections should be a priority for children placed in congregate care settings
Read the priority here.
