Sacramento, California — In the wake of Foster Care Awareness Month in May, California is re-committing to efforts aimed at improving outcomes for children in foster care by launching a series of new programs and funding allocations.
State officials reaffirmed their commitment to keeping foster youth connected with family and community. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) emphasized a “kin-first” approach, noting its benefits for long-term child well-being. Director Jennifer Troia affirmed that placing children with relatives serves their best interests.
Key initiatives announced include:
- A restructured foster care rate system that adjusts financial support based on each child’s assessed needs
- The launch of the Center for Excellence in Family Finding, Engagement, and Support in partnership with UC Davis
- Expansion of the Fostering Futures scholarship under the Middle Class Scholarship program
- Implementation of Guaranteed Income Pilot Programs to aid former foster youth in their transition to independence
- Allocation of $1.9 billion to the CalKIDS program to establish savings accounts for children in foster care
- Strengthening of the child welfare workforce through the California Workforce Innovation, Support, and Education (CalWISE) program
Assembly Bill 592 has also expanded verification services for former foster youth to access assistance programs, responding to a significant rise in demand in 2024.
David Sanders, executive vice president of Systems Improvement at Casey Family Programs, noted that children experience better outcomes when placed with relatives.
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