Despite problems with Michigan’s foster care system, a new national report shows an increase in the number of family placements.
Last Month, state officials were in court explaining ongoing problems with the state foster care system that included repeated instances of child abuse and a backlog of problems created by the state’s information system.
But on one metric, at least, Michigan appears to be showing improvement. A new report shows the state has increased the number of foster kids placed with families by 9% over the last decade.
Rob Geen is with the Annie E. Casey Foundation, which released the report. He said children are better off when they’re with families.
“The research clearly shows that children are more likely to succeed. They are more likely to have better education, employment, and long term success when they are cared for in a family setting.”
Geen said there are gaps between the placement of white and black foster kids.
“And while progress has been across the board for all kids white kids have actually improved at a faster rate than African American kids. Or at least state’s actions as far as placing those kids in families.”
He said states need to work on closing that gap.