All over the nation, there is an alarming shortage of foster homes. According to a report from Washington State’s Office of the Family and Children’s Ombuds, hundreds of children sleep in hotels and offices because no foster placement is available. Similarly, in Los Angeles County, foster youths have been placed in unlicensed hotels due to the lack of other options.
Although officials and leaders expressed their horror and dismay, the practice continues. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger says that although she’s not comfortable with this situation, changes in state law have tied the county’s hands.
California state law prioritizes placing young individuals with relatives or foster families over group homes. This law aims to reduce abuse and violence in group homes.
Unfortunately, this law prevents many individuals from being accepted into a proper home. Many youths who have behavioral problems, mental illness, or require a more intensive level of care were rejected from facilities and foster families.
With no other choice, social workers placed these youths in hotel rooms and offices. But this has proven to be detrimental. Two social workers were assaulted while taking care of youth staying in the hotel rooms. Additionally, it is hard to provide for all of their needs.
Although officials and leaders expressed their horror and dismay, the practice continues. L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger says that although she’s not comfortable with this situation, changes in state law have tied the county’s hands.
California state law prioritizes placing young individuals with relatives or foster families over group homes. This law aims to reduce abuse and violence in group homes.
Unfortunately, this law prevents many individuals from being accepted into a proper home. Many youths who have behavioral problems, mental illness, or require a more intensive level of care were rejected from facilities and foster families.
With no other choice, social workers placed these youths in hotel rooms and offices. But this has proven to be detrimental. Two social workers were assaulted while taking care of youth staying in the hotel rooms. Additionally, it is hard to provide for all of their needs.