Mass DCF Implements New Program to Prevent Foster Children from Running Away

Mass DCF Implements New Program to Prevent Foster Children from Running Away

Some children run away from their DCF foster homes for a variety of reasons. DCF’s goal regarding foster children is to provide a safe, nurturing, and supportive placement. Unfortunately, this objective is not always met. When children run away from their foster homes and go missing, there are minimal services to help correct the situation.

Understanding the DCF investigation process is crucial for parents and guardians to navigate these challenging circumstances effectively. Additionally, knowing parents’ rights against DCF can empower families to advocate for their children’s best interests and ensure that their rights are protected throughout the process.

According to Boston 25 News, a nationwide investigation scrutinized how DCF handles missing and absent children. DCF faced backlash after the investigation revealed that “child welfare workers across the country had kicked thousands of missing foster care children out of the system.” This investigation sparked a demand for change within the system concerning missing and or absent children. This nationwide investigation lasted approximately a year.

Boston 25 News reported that the Massachusetts DCF made strides by implementing the “Missing and Absent Pilot Program” for children who run away while in DCF custody. This program has been successful at targeting high-risk children and intervening before they run away.

According to Boston 25 News, “the agency said that since July 2018 there have been 38% fewer missing kids,” due to the implementation of the new program. State data acquired under public records request shows that “in July 2018 there were 167 missing or absent foster kids compared to 103 of April (2019).”

New approaches like this program need to be continually looked into and implemented. There are minimal funds for finding missing foster children within DCF, highlighting the need for comprehensive DCF policies and procedures review. Such initiatives are essential to ensure the rights and safety of children in foster care, addressing critical areas such as funding, oversight, and the DCF investigation process.

According to the DCF budget analysis, the Governor recommends “the addition of $150,000, including $121,500 from the States General Fund..to hire a protective investigator to assist with locating missing foster children.

Kevin Seaver is an experienced, trusted lawyer who successfully represents clients against DCF from Boston, Massachusetts. Call Kevin at (617) 263-2633 or request a Consultation online!

DISCLAIMER

You find yourself in this situation, it’s advisable to seek legal representation from a qualified attorney, like those at the Law Office of Kevin Seaver, who can advocate for your rights and guide you through the complex process of a DCF investigation.

Remember that the ultimate goal of DCF is to ensure the safety and well-being of children while supporting families in crisis.

Please note that this article does not create an Attorney-Client relationship between our law firm and the reader and is provided for informational purposes only. Information in this article does not apply to all readers.

Readers should not rely on this information as legal advice and should seek specific counsel from the attorney based on personal circumstances. Thank you.

Kevin Patrick Seaver is a Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer who represents parents against false child abuse allegations.

 

Massachusetts DCF Defense Lawyer Kevin Seaver has been successfully fighting false child abuse allegations since 1991.

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