HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 01041994 - IO.11 TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Contra
FROM:
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INTERNAL OPERATIONS COMMITTEE \ Costa
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County
December 13, 1993
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DATE: �=��yr
SUBJECT: REPORT ON EFFORTS TO RECRUIT AND RETAIN FOSTER PARENTS
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S)OR RECOMMENDATION(S)&BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1 . ACCEPT the- attached report from the Social Services Director
on the Foster Home Recruitment and Retention Project,
including comments from the President of the Foster Parents '
Association and supplemental out-of-home placement data.
2 . EXPRESS the Board' s appreciation to the Social Services
Director and his staff for the successful series of meetings
which have been held with the President of the Foster Parents '
Association, which appear to have resolved any
misunderstanding which had existed between foster parents and
the Department.
3 . REQUEST the Social Services Director to make a further annual
report on this subject to the 1994 Internal Operations
Committee during the fourth quarter of 1994 and for this
purpose REFER this item to the 1994 Internal Operations
Committee.
4 . REMOVE this item as a referral to the 1993 Internal Operations
Committee.
BACKGROUND:
For the past several years, the Internal Operations Committee has
received periodic reports from the Social Services Department on
the Department ' s efforts to recruit and retain foster parents .
This year, in addition, we received a referral from the Board of
.Supervisors on certain concerns which had been expressed by the
CONTINUED ON ATTACHMENT: YES SIGNATURE:
RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOAR COM ITT
APPROVE OTHER
i'
SIGNATURE(S):_ *r#p�� r�I6rur'�' lT"
ACTION OF BOARD ON Januarzy 4 , 1994 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE
UNANIMOUS(ABSENT ) AND CORRECT COPY OF AN ACTION TAKEN
AYES: NOES: AND ENTERED ON THE MINUTES OF THE BOARD
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: OF SUPERVISORS ON THE DATE SHOWN,
- ATTESTED A.
Contact: PHIL BA HELOR.CLE OF THE BOARD OF
cc: County Administrator SUPERVISORS AND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Social Services Director
Steve Warga, President, Foster Parents Association
BY DEPUTY
I .O.-11
-2-
President of the Foster Parents ' Association. On December 13, 1993
our Committee met with the following: Perfecto Villarreal, Social
Services Director; Yvonne Bullock, Assistant County Welfare
Director; Nancy Carey, Licensing Supervisor; Linda Waddington,
Division Supervisor; Steve Warga, President, Foster Parents '
Association; and Sara Hoffman, Senior Deputy County Administrator.
Ms . Bullock reviewed the attached report with us.
Of particular concern to the Department staff, the Foster Parents '
Association and our Committee is the dramatic reduction in staffing
the foster home licensing program has sustained in the past three
years . In 1990, the program included 7 .5 licensing staff, 1 . 0
foster home recruiter, and 1 .0 trainer-developer for a total of 9 .5
staff. In 1993, this has been reduced to a total of 4 .5 licensing
staff and no recruiter or trainer-developer, a reduction of over
50% .
It was noted that there has been an 8% reduction in foster homes
and a corresponding 8% reduction in foster home beds during the
past year. The Department is concerned that the loss of the
Recruiter will impact the ability to recruit and retain foster
parents significantly. Of interest, however, are the supplemental
figures which are included following the attached report which
demonstrate the dramatic increase in the use of relatives ' homes
and the corresponding reduction in the use of group homes and
foster homes over the past several years . The use of relatives '
homes have grown from 23% to 47% of all placements while the use of
group homes has dropped from 17% to 9% of all placements and the
use of foster homes has dropped from 50% to 39% of all placements .
It was noted that the Department is facing a problem in being able
to recruit and retain emergency foster homes since the amount which
is paid to emergency foster parents is less attractive since long-
term foster care rates have increased.
It was also noted that Mr. Villarreal has met with the Foster
Parents ' Association twice in recent weeks and that another meeting
is scheduled for February. Mr. Warga provided the attached
comments on the Department' s report, but generally expressed his
agreement that things are going much better than they had been and
that the foster parents are looking forward to their next meeting
with Mr. Villarreal .
We believe that it would be helpful to the Board of Supervisors,
the Department and our foster parents for the Internal Operations
Committee to continue this as an on-going referral during 1994 .
SOCIAL SERVICE DEPARTMENT Contra Costa County
TO Claude Van Marter, DATE December 6, 1993
Assistant County Administrator
FROM Perfecto illarreal,
County Welfare Director
SUBJ FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
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Attached please find the report to be presented to the Internal Operations
Committee on Monday, December 13, 1993, at 11:30 a.m. Additional copies for
distribution are also attached. Yvonne Bullock will make a brief verbal
presentation of this report, and she, along with the Licensing Supervisor, Nancy
Carey, will be prepared to respond to questions. Linda Waddington, Division
Manager, will be present also.
The last report was submitted in December, 1992. The Department was asked to
report back one year later with an update on three specific items:
1. Number of total foster families.
2. Number of available foster beds.
3. Number of foster families recruited through Department efforts versus families
licensed to care for a specific child.
The attached report addresses these areas. In addition, we have continued our
policy of providing pertinent data on retention of foster homes as well as comments
on areas covered in the last report. Information is also provided concerning the
Department's meetings with representatives of the Foster Parent Association.
PV:ceb
Attachment
b1hrecrut.cvm
b-disk 2
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
Seven prior reports have been submitted since April, 1989. Previously a semi-annual
report, the Board agreed in December, 1991, that henceforth this would be an annual
report. The purpose of the report is to provide background information on foster parent
recruitment and retention. This update, in accordance with the instructions of the
Internal Operations Committee, covers these specific area:
1. The number of licensed foster homes.
2. The number of available foster beds.
3. The number of foster families obtained through our recruitment efforts versus
families licensed to care for a specific child.
We have continued our policy of including relevant data on other areas of particular
interest, such as retention of foster homes, as well as data on future recruitment plans.
Information is also provided concerning the Department's meetings with representatives
of the Foster Parent Association.
Number of Foster Homes Licensed
The attached report, along with the attached updated materials and charts, provides data
from November 1, 1992, through October 31, 1993.
From November 1, 1992, through October 31, 1993, we have issued 96 new licenses for
foster care. During this same period we have lost 158 homes for a net loss of 60 homes.
This equates to an approximate 8% decrease (see Attachments A and Q.
Number of Beds Available
During this report period the total number of beds available has decreased from 1,125 to
1,044 for a loss of 81 beds or 8% (see Attachments B and D).
Number of Homes Obtained through our
Recruitment Efforts vs. Families Licensed for a Specific Child
The following data was obtained through our Social Service Reporting System (SSRS)
and was cross checked manually in order to ensure accuracy.
As reported earlier 96 homes were newly licensed during this report period. Of this
number, 50 were licensed.for general foster care while 46 were licensed for a specific
1
' FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
child. This breaks down to a 54%/46% split, with about 54% of the new homes licensed
as a direct result of our recruitment activities--along with the on-going outstanding
recruitment efforts performed by our current foster families.
Retention
We have added this section to each report since the Department is well aware that on-
going efforts spent on maintaining our current licensed foster homes is as important as
recruiting new ones. We have kept accurate statistics as foster homes were closed in an
effort to improve our retention factor by assessing what prompted the closure of each
home. Of the 158 homes closed from November 1, 1992, through October 31, 1993:
1. 66 homes (42%) were licensed for a specific child. When the child turned 18 or left
the home for any reason, the foster family indicated that they were no longer
interested in foster care.
2. 29 homes (18%) were closed due to personal changes within the family unit (divorce,
death of a family member, etc.).
3. 28 homes (18%) were closed when the family moved out of our County.
4. 20 homes (13%) were closed due to a decision with the Licensing Unit to take
administrative action leading to revocation of the license. All but one of our
decisions were supported by the state's licensing legal department.
This area was first addressed in our last report. Since then the number of cases
referred for revocation has grown from 9% to 13%. Our statistics reflect growing
concerns nationwide over dramatic increases of reports of child abuse within foster
homes. Our Licensing Unit is committed to ensure the safety of children placed in
the foster care system, and in doing so, to take whatever steps are necessary. The
action to revoke a license is a serious one, never taken lightly.
5. 15 homes (9%) were closed due to families leaving the County to work for private
agencies. The number of families going to private agencies has increased 1% since
our last report. Most of the families switching over have indicated they are
displeased with the adjusted rates in our Difficulty-of-Care (DOC) program. These
adjustments have led to a lower payment rate for many of our children in placement.
Interestingly enough, many of these families who leave the County for private
agencies (more than half) return to the County foster care program within one to
two years after leaving it.
2
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
Staff Activities
The most significant staff change since our last report is the loss of our Foster Home
Licensing Recruiter. In January, 1993, Jan McDonald made a sudden decision to opt for
early retirement. She had been an active part of the Licensing Unit since 1987, starting
initially as Foster Care Developer/Trainer. When the Recruiter position became vacant
in January, 1990, Ms. McDonald assumed that position. The Developer/Trainer position
was lost at that time.
Due to County budget problems, Ms. McDonald's position as Recruiter was not filled.
This was a significant blow to the Licensing Unit. With only 4.5 Licensing workers, there
is little time for recruitment. It is interesting to note the drop in the number of licensed
homes after February, 1993.
In their June, 1991, memo to our Director, the Internal Operations Committee noted
that: "if the Department were unable to continue the current relatively low level of
recruitment activity, it is likely that we would see a gradual but consistent degradation in
the total number of available foster care beds." Unfortunately we believe we are
beginning to see this pattern emerging in the Licensing Unit at the present time.
A number of activities have been curtailed or lost since the Recruiter position was
eliminated. Among these activities are:
1. Our Quarterly Newsletter for Foster Parents
Praised throughout the neighboring Bay Area counties, our Newsletter became a
model for other counties to emulate. A great deal of care and effort was involved in
selecting the logo and format. First published in 1988, the Newsletter provided up-
to-date information on the foster care community and was a way of welcoming new
licensees and saying good bye to licensed homes (and Department staff working with
foster families) when they moved on. The Newsletter also served as an
informational tool to foster parents about changes occurring within the Department.
They often learned of changes in staff and policies and procedures in the Newsletter.
The Newsletter ended in January, 1993.
2. Liaison with the Foster Care Education Program at our Community Colleges
The Recruiter worked with Sara Monser at Diablo Valley College and Intisar Shariff
at Contra Costa College. She encouraged them to provide such training as CPR and
First Aid, which are required for licensure. The Recruiter also published current
college training schedules for foster parents at the local colleges as well as news on
other training events. No staff is available currently to work with our community
3
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
colleges. However Nancy Carey, Foster Care Supervisor, has temporarily been
assigned to meet with Sara Monser's training advisory committee.
At this point it is important to note that the Foster Parent Association has begun to
print their own newsletter. Largely through the efforts of current President Steve
Warga and utilizing the computer talents of foster parent Sally McGreedy, the foster
parent newsletter began in early 1993 (see Attachment E). Since the demise of our
County newsletter, the foster parent newsletter has served to provide on-going
information to foster parents on training events and other items of current interest to
the foster parent community. It is a tribute to our Foster Parent Association that
they have found a way to keep this resource going. The Department underwrites the
cost of mailing the foster parent newsletter.
3. Liaison with the Foster Parent Association
The Recruiter was a member of the Foster Parent Association (FPA) and attended
their monthly meetings and many year-round activities. No staff person is able to
regularly attend these meetings. However, the Assistant Director has been meeting
with the FPA president monthly and quarterly meetings are scheduled between the
FPA officers and Children's Services Administrative Team (Division Managers).
Additionally, the Licensing supervisor has met with the FPA president a number of
times to discuss areas of mutual concern.
4. Participation in Family Finders (Group of Bay Area Recruiters)
The Recruiter attended monthly meetings with other Bay Area recruiters for public
and private agencies. No staff person is able to attend these meetings.
5. Coordination of our Subsidized Emergency Foster Homes
The Recruiter arranged for new emergency home contracts and helped process
monthly payments to emergency homes. In addition the Recruiter maintained a log
of accrued vacation time for each contracted home.
The supervisor of the Licensing Unit has assumed responsibility for renewing
emergency home contracts as they expire and for keeping a log on accrued vacation
time. No one is currently available to recruit or to process new emergency home
contracts as a regular part of his/her assignment.
6. Orientation Meetings
The Recruiter conducted a series of two orientation/training meetings four times per
month Countywide for a total of eight meetings. This number has been reduced to
4
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
three meetings per month. Two Licensing workers and the Licensing supervisor
share in covering these meetings. Approximately 610 people attended orientation
Countywide during this report period. The majority were from West County (310),
followed by East County (186) and Central County (114). Most were referred by
County placement workers or by our foster parents.
7. Toll-Free 800 Line
Our toll-free recruiter line was eliminated in the spring of 1993 due to
under-utilization. We continue to receive calls daily on our general Licensing
number. The majority of the calls continue to originate from West County, followed
by East County and then Central County. All calls are responded to immediately by
the Worker of the Day who provides the caller with information on foster care and
invites the caller to attend the next orientation meeting.
The remainder of the Licensing staff has remained constant. There have been no other
changes in personnel other than the Recruiter except for our backup clerk (two days per
week). Her position was vacant from mid-January, 1993, until a temporary clerk was
assigned to our unit in July, 1993.
Our Foster Parent Recognition Luncheon was on November 6, 1993, at Humphrey's
Restaurant in Antioch. The luncheon was a great success. Each foster family attending
received at least one door prize from participating merchants. There were two 25-year
award winners and two 30-year award winners. A good time was had by all. It was our
pleasure to publically acknowledge the efforts of foster parents on behalf of dependent
children.
Accomplished Goals
1. As reported in our last update, the Heritage Project was begun in April, 1992. The
Heritage Program Recruiter recruits, trains and arranges respite care for minority
families who provide foster care for children (0-3) of substance-abusing parents who
are in drug and alcohol treatment programs.
We are pleased to report that this program has provided excellent training for both
new and currently licensed foster families throughout the County. Although the
project originated in West County, the program recently expanded to East County.
The Heritage Project has provided us with an additional resource for expanding the
number of minority homes recruited in East and West County.
2. The Licensing staff continues to do an admirable job of reducing the number of
pending applications. At this time, there are only 44 applications pending. Most of
5
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
the delays applicants experience are due to tardy fingerprint clearances from the
state. It can take the state up to four months to process fingerprinting clearances.
3. Our County continues to participate in the Channel 5 Bay Area "Waiting Child"
Program. This program joins five Bay Area counties, under weatherman Brian
Sussman, to provide weekly video profiles on special-needs children who have not
found foster or adoptive homes through the regular format. Callers who are
interested in a child are referred to United Way. Appropriate callers are then
directed to the individual counties for further information. Our County continues to
receive the second highest number of calls (after Alameda County). The majority of
callers are of African-American ethnicity. We are pleased to report that of the 117
callers during this report, approximately 25% (or 29 callers) went on to become
licensed foster homes in the participating counties.
4. Child Welfare Division Managers and Yvonne Bullock, Assistant County Welfare
Director, met with the Foster Parent Association officers on October 26, 1993, and
November 22, 1993. County Welfare Director Perfecto Villarreal met with the
combined group on November 22, 1993. Three main issues were identified by the
FPA:
a. Failure of the Department to always comply with all of the items listed on the
Foster Parent/Agency Agreement (form SOC 158).
b. Lack of communication between the Department and the Association.
c. Loss of the recruiter/developer.
The Department agreed to enter into a dialogue with the FPA to develop an action
plan for these three areas. In addition, the Department agreed to explore the
possibility of developing a foster parent mentoring program for newly licensed
families.
Future Plans 1993-1994
For some time it has been hard to look toward future goals in the Foster Home
Licensing Program. From January-June, 1993, it seemed that the state was firmly
committed to taking the licensing programs away from the counties and returning them
to the state. That, along with the loss of our Recruiter, made prospects for the future
look dim! The Department was directed by Supervisor Sunne McPeak to contact the
Children's Lobby regarding the state's potential takeover of licensing. However, this
action became unnecessary when it became clear that the state is not equipped to take
over the licensing programs statewide. They do not have the staff or the necessary
resources and will allow the counties to continue their current licensing programs
6
FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT
AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
December 6, 1993
provided that County licensing staff do not allow a conflict of interest to develop with
their placement workers. We are proud to report that according to our State Analyst,
Michelle Anderson, our County has one of the finest records in the state for compliance
with state licensing regulations!
This past October the President of the Contra Costa County Foster Parent Association
submitted written communication, followed by brief remarks to the Board of Supervisors,
identifying the concerns about the lack of support from the Department for foster
parents. The Board, while acknowledging the loss of revenues and staff, directed the
Department to create a communication process which might make the foster care system
run more smoothly.
Subsequent to the President's appearance before the Board, the Director, the Children's
Services Administrative Team and the Foster Parent Executive Team have met on two
separate occasions to specifically address compliance with the Agency-Foster Parent
Agreement and ways to create a more positive communication network between the
Agency and the organization. The immediate results of the meetings are captured in the
attached letter dated December 3, 1993.
Additional Departmental plans to address specific issues raised by the Foster Parent
Association include the following:
1. Continue quarterly meetings between the Child Welfare Division Managers and the
FPA Executive Team.
2. Implement an additional, less formal grievance procedure to augment current
grievance systems already in place (e.g., formal appeal process through either the
State Department of Social Services or the Department).
3. Survey each foster family to identify positives and negatives to foster parenting for
Contra Costa County. (Survey has been drafted and will be sent to foster parents in
January, 1994.)
4. Plan joint training for staff and foster parents to reinforce the Agency's definition of
the role and responsibilities of foster parents and child welfare workers. First
training is scheduled for December 7, 1993. (See attachment.)
5. Update the foster parent handbook.
6. Explore possible additional state funding for foster parent recruiter/developer.
b1hrecrut.rpt
b-disk 2
7
Attachment A
NOVEMBER 1992-JULY 1993
TERMINATED
MONTH NEW LICENSES LICENSES
November 1992 11 15
December 1992 15 14
January 1993 9 11
February 1993 11 4
March 1.993 9 20
April 1993 7 8
May 1993 4 8
June 1993 5 18
July 1993 5 20
August 1993 7 14
September 1993 6 14
October 1993 7 12
TOTAL 96 158
Net Loss: 62 homes or 8%
Attachment B
NOVEMBER 1992-JULY 1993
NUMBER OF NUMBER OF
MONTH LICENSED HOMES AVAILABLE BEDS
November 1992 501 1,125
December 1992 502 1,123
January 1993 500 1,124
February 1993 507 1,136
March 1993 496 1,122
April 1993 495 1,117
May 1993 491 1,112
June 1993 478 1,089
July 1993 473 1,085
August 1993 466 1.,068
September 1993 458 1,051
October 1993 453 1,044
Total Loss of Loss of
TOTAL 60 Homes or 81 Beds or
8% 8%
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Attachment E
Contra Costa County Foster Parents Association
jio5ter ifami'lp
VOLUME 1,NUMBER S,NOVEMBER 1993
I soon can learn to do it • Applied for participation in the
PRESIDENT'S DESK if you'll let me see it done. Contra Costa Food Bank
Steve Warga 1 can watch your hands in action
but your tongue too fast may run. Advised,supported and aided 150+
In October, foster parents in Contra Foster Parents
Costa County took a big step toward a And the lecture you deliver
brighter future. Association representa- may be very wise and true, These things we did in addition to our
tives met with the County Board of But I'd rather get my lessons normal activities:support groups,educa-
Supervisors on behalf of all Foster Par- by observing what you do. tional classes, Clothes Closets, etc. My
encs. We stressed to the Board that the commitment, as long as I occupy this
Social Service Department was not hon- For 1 might misunderstand you office is to continue living our creed.
oring the Placement Agreements they and the high advice you give,
sign with us for every Foster Child in our But there's no misunderstanding Now, I have a personal request of you
homes. Their lack of attention to this how you act and how you live. who are not members of the Association.
legal agreement creates too much grief. If you think we're accomplishing things
In response, the Board of Supervisors Edgar A.Guest(1681-1959) that help your Foster Parenting,join us.
unanimously ordered the Social Service The small act of completing the Mem-
Department to meet with us, reconcile In my experience,no other group of peo- bership Application at the back of this
our differences and report the results to ple exemplifies"A Sermon To lave By" newsletter and mailing it with $20 will
the Internal Operations committee in more than Foster Parents.Quietly,with- help us enormously as we work on your
December. We will insist that all Foster out pulpit or fanfare,you hold hands and behalf. Next Year, we're making some
Parents and all Social Workers receive a walk with needy children rather than changes.One of those changes concerns
summary of our agreements. merely point the way. Society owes you this newsletter. Beginning in January,
a great debt.Thousands of adults today only association members will continue
Thinking about the impact of this and succeed as citizens because a Foster receiving The Foster Family Herald.
other actions this year,one of my favor- Home opened its doors to the loving This year the Social Service Department
ite poems comes to mind.Let me share it family within. has kindly printed and mailed our news-
with you:
Your living sermons inspire me to ensure ;.. ; ...........
A SERMON TO LIVE BY that the Foster Parent Association mea-
sures
ea-
5 DE T 1
ur S..I$SUE:
s esu to the high standards you set in
P g
Y
I'd rather see a sermon rm n v
our 1 lives.es.If w '1
e f to
fail dorm n
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than hear one an
day.
our commitments,'
o co tme is if w 1
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e mere point Y
Po
;.::.::.;;:.;:.;;>;:.;:.;
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::.............. .
I'd rather one should walk with me way, we insult our constituencyand
: : .. ;::: <Free::lnfattt Formula;;
thanmerely point the way. destroy our credibility.Isubmitfor our » :;:
editor .2.
review some highlights of 1993: $OUthot.0.ht Ne}M1+s; iZ
The eye better sab ttpupil
<>Cetrfral.lr un yNews 3
and more willing than the
e ear. Founded and
publishedli ed
TI)ee nater
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Fine counsel is confusing cralD ews;'; 3;: ; ;
.
but example's always clear. :: :;::;: : ;; :;;H.e..ipMEN:
•
Secured a commitment from �e:e:Glasses'torFo§ter::C i dre
S co me om the
:::...
'nm >.
And the best of all the preachers Board of Supervisors to review and ,.:::e;0ut for,Care';Givers; ;i<
Na r Troubl s
............
areen who their creed
them live th r s. remedy some of our grievances
at o the Bade A
For to see good put in action
Is what everybody needs.
'<<Ma M mbe Dscout►t 5fotes <4
■
Zbe footer familp foeralb
1218 GREENBROOK DRIVE
DANVILLE,CALIFORNIA 94526
letter to all the County Foster Homes. obtaining formula call your area vice-
NvANTT �IWe're grateful for their help. president: FOSTER ASSOCIATION
1993 EXECUTIVE BOARD
Our feeling is that we proved to you this Area Vice President Phone Steve Warga
PRESIDENT
year our ability to deliver on our - Central Cathie 370-1616 Zea Dandelion
circa
Antioch,CA 94509
ises.We believe your position as a Foster Behrendt (510 757-2634 horn
Parent has improved already because of East Kathleen 706-1142 r10 757
743-2723 office
our efforts.Please join us,if you haven't Janes-Olsen T. Warne
already, as we continue into 1994 163sc�Jarn s court
enhancing the quality of care we deliver West Judi Gonzales 7241723 Danville,CA 94526
(510)637-9602
to abused, neglected children in Contra South Sally 837-6511Mike Dolan
Costa County. Md''redy TREASURER
554 Candl•b•rry Road
Walnut Creek CA 94596
(510)933-4626
Cathie Behrendt
CENTRAL COUNTY VICE-PRESIDENT
SECRETARY POSITION FELLED LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 3203 Elmquist court
Steve Warga Sally McGredy Martinez,CA 94559
(610)370.1616
Kathleen Jones-Olson
We are indeed fortunate to enjoy now the Well folks, the end of the year is just EAST COUNTY VICE-PRESIDENT
considerable talents of Terry Warne,Sec- around the comer. We hope you have Anttii ch,,"C'�09
retary of the Foster Parent Association. liked our newsletter,chock full of inter- (610)706-1142
Terry offered her services after Kathleen esting information and tidbits coming to Judi Gonzales
WEST COUNTY VICE-PRESIDENT
Olsen stepped into the East County your door about every other month.Well 1125 McDonald Drive
A W64
Vice—Presidency.Terry brings to the job guess what?Our next news letter will not Pinole,
(610)72424-n231723
many years of experience with Boy be coming to you!Unless... Sal ly McGredy
Scouts of America, and many years of SOUTH COUNTY VICE-PRESIDENT
experience as a Foster Parent in South You join the Contra Costa Foster Parents 1 D C
GreenA 9 Drive
Pe � Danville,CA 94526
County. Association. Yep, that's right. In case (510)637-6511
you haven't noticed, on the very first Sheryl Parr-Hill
MEMBERSHIP CHAIRPERSON
A special thanks to Ella Paggett of West page right above 194t f06ter fatnilp 1119 Stoninglon Avenue
County.Shortly after Terry accepted the Woeralb, is our little logo that tells you San Pablo,CA 94806
position,Ella called me to offer her ser- who is putting out this wonderful news- (510(s1o))xIs-0-x66NanRhodes
vices.Earlier this year,I helped Ella a lit- letter. So if you want to continue to PROGRAM CHAIRPERSON
tie bit with some Department problems. receive our little newsletter plus all the Walnut
t CreeBenni ,CA court
P Pr P Walnut Creek,CA 94598
Working a 40 hour week,struggling with other benefits that go with belonging to (sin)256-9251
a long commute and caring for Foster the Association, you will have to join Irene Semper
REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE
Kids,seems like plenty to me! Knowing now! All you have to do is fill out the 262 Michas Drive
the time demands of Executive Board membership coupon found on the back Sar+Pablo,ca 94806
members, I was deeply touched by her page of this newsletter and send twenty (510)222-0853
kind offer.Thank—you,Ella. dollars to the address printed on the cou-
pon and you will become a member! parents should mark February 16th on
their calendars and make a special point
to come meet Mary Hayward! Mary is
FREE INFANT FORMULA the guru of educating and assessing spe-
Sally McGredy SOUTH COUNTY NEWS cial needs children from the ADD child
Sally McGredy to the physically handicapped child.She
All four county areas now have formula knows more about resources and ser-
available to foster parents who need it.In Our First Aid class held in October was vices available for special needs kids(all
stock we have SMAS Powder and Nur- lots of fun.Karen Rose our leader makes foster kids are special needs kids in one
soyTm liquid concentrate. If you have a all classes not only informative but lots way or another)than any other person in
placement and need formula until you of fun too.Turnout was somewhat disap- the business. South County foster par-
can get on WIC,or for some reason can- pointing,but those who came had a great ents are lucky to have a gold mine like
not qualify for WIC, this formula is for time and a wonderful spread for coffee Mme'!
you free of charge. This is an ongoing break.
program so once you tvn out you may Mary works for the San Ramon Valley
obtain more. For information about We have an exciting speaker coming up School System in the preschool and
for February's meeting!All county foster infant program,assessing and determin-
e
■
fte 509ter famAt Neralb Page 2
.......................................................................................
ing what each special needs child needs. speakers this year.on subjects that we i
One of Mary's major fortes is cutting feel will be new and informative.
through all that red tape that we all seem Remember,you don't have to be a foster
to get so choked up in when we try to parent to attend,we welcome your input. January 21st
have our foster children's needs met.On It's not difficult to get out of bed.take a 7:00 to 9:00 PM
top of all of this our Mary is a foster par- shower, get dressed, come down to the Grace Episcopal Church
ent and an adoptive parent so she holds a support group meeting and we'll wake 30 Muir Station Road
special place for us,because we got her you up with delicious refreshments. Martinez
into this! Come on people!West County is a little
sluggish in attendance.Let's get this ball Quarterly
Don't forget South County Foster Par- rolling. We can only roll forward if we Foster Parent Association
ents,we are saving all our trash and trea- all stick together, learn from each other ; Meeting
sures for our annual garage sale, to be and support each other.Look forward to Hosted by East County
held sometime in April. Remember all seeing each and everyone of you.
donated items are tax deductible!
Last Monday of the month WinterAttention! We are changing the day of 10:00 AM until NOON Quarter
our Support Group Meetings! Child Care$2.00 each. Meeting eLIlng
Beginning in December we will be meet- St.James Lutheran Church
ing every third Monday from 9:30 AM 1963 Carlson Blvd.
Come spend a pleasant evening with
Richmond,CA
until 11:30 AM at the Pleasant View fellow foster parents.There will be a
Church of Christ on Diablo Canyon raffle and refreshments.
Road in Pleasanton. Hope to see you
there. Scheduled Speakers:
November-Ray Wisniewski "Ritualistic
t
Abuse"
CENTRAL COUNTY NEWS We are pleased to share that instructor
Cathie Behrendt December- Miriam "Life on the Other taught classes at our home are now certi-
Side" A former foster child and her fied with Diablo Valley College, and at
Central County Support Group meetings former foster children tell a success the end of each course you will be given
are held the second Thursday of each story! a Foster Care Education Program Certif-
month at Cathie Behrendt's house on icate of Completion.
3203 Elmquist Court in Martinez. For Clothes Closet
more information call Cathie at 370-
1616. We have many types of clothes available
in West County.Contact Stacy 233-1809 HELPFUL HINT
WEST COUNTY NEWS To avoid the hassle of wet beds in the
Judi Gonzales EAST COUNTY NEWS wee hours,make a child's bed with two
Kathleen Jones-Olsen sets of sheets separated by a waterproof
So we've begun the new school year.We pad.If an accident happens,just take off
heard all those shouts of joy go up all East County's support group meetings the top sheets and pad.
over the county.Now that you have some are held on the last Monday of every
(a little)time for yourself,why not plan month as Kathleen Jones-Olsen's home,
on attending our foster parent meetings? 2430 Whitetail Drive,Antioch.For more
Meet some new people, learn a few information call Kathleen at 706-1142 FREE GLASSES FOR FOSTER
things, participate in a surprise door CHILDREN
prize. It's so refreshing to sit and share Please call if there is special topic that Kathleen Jones-Olsen
with other foster parents for a couple of you would like to share or have an edu-
hours.Share your joys,your frustrations, cator instruct the class. But please call Lens Crafters in Concord is offering free
your fears or worries. Things become a far enough in advance for scheduling. eye exams and eyeglasses to all foster
lot less worrisome when you find out Child care will be made available for children.This service extends from Con-
someone else has gone through the same $2.00 per child per class by pre-reserva-
situation. we have scheduled many fine tion only.
■
tlitte foster familp Neralb Page 3
cord to Richmond,Las Vegas and Sacra-. helping them return to their responsibili- care of children,not an administrator or
mento. ties with renewed spirits. a professional.WTG Deanna!!!
Ann Dartell,the retail manager for Lens For more information contact Time Out
Crafters wants to extend a continuing For Caregivers at 530-3154
helping hand to vision impaired foster MORE MEMBER DISCOUNT
children in these areas. STORES
Please contact the East County area Vice HAIR TROUBLES?
President.Kathleen Jones-Olsen,at 706- Okay all you Foster Parents Association
1142 for screening and an appointment members(non-members can skip to next
date.Call before December 4th as that is Have you ever had a child placed in your article) get out your Association cards
the cut off date to make all appointments. home who came with a incredibly tan- and let's go shopping! The following
gled mess or hair that hadn't been stores are offering various discounts for
December 18th will be the date of the washed or combed in months?You have! their goods.Just show them your associ-
party and the day the children will Well now help is on the way! Marilyn ation card!
receive their new glasses. Mitchell who owns the M'Vogue Beauty
Salon in Concord is willing to work on A Child's Encore
Thank you Lens Crafters! foster children with seriously damaged 3009 Delta Fair Boulevard
hair. Marilyn is a licensed beautician Antioch.CA
with special talents in treating badly
damaged hair,especially with black chil- This wonderful store is located near the
TIME OUT FOR CARE GIVERS dren's hair.So if you have a hair disaster Straw Hat Pizza at the comer of Bucha-
walk into your house call Marilyn. nan and Delta Fair Blvd. Sherry, who is
the new owner.is eager to serve the fos-
Do you need a break from taking care of Marilyn is also willing to give discounts ter families of Contra Costa County.She
your child or infant with a disability? on haircuts and hair treatment for foster will give a 10%discount on all merchan-
Perhaps you have a difficult time finding children and foster families if...You are dise. She sells "almost new" baby and
someone who is capable of attending to a member of the Contra Cassa Foster children's clothing,toys and equipment.
your child's special needs. Do you feel Parent Association! Just show her your Call 754-9694 for information and
like you need a break to renew your pos- card and enjoy the savings. hours.
itive spirit?
M'Vogue is located at: Kids'Stuff Go-Round
A unique organization called Time Out 1524"A"Street
for Caregivers offers respite and renewal 2307 Concord Blvd. Antioch,CA
for caregivers. Local businesses and Concord,CA 94520 New owner Carl says to come on in with
individuals want to reach out to families Telephone 827-2259 your Association card and he will give
of children with disabilities and help you a 10%discount. Carl sells new and
ease the burden of giving care by provid- used clothes, toys and equipment. This
ing a variety of contributions: weekend store used to be Baby Magic.Phone 754-
hotel stays, restaurant certificates and PAT ON THE BACK 8242 for info and hours.
tickets to the theater and other entertain-
ment events. La Chiquita Kids'Store
Congratulations are in order for one our 733 B El Portal Drive
Tune Out also takes cash donations from very own foster parents. She is Deanna (in the El Portal Shopping Center)
interested businesses to pay substitute Mitchell.Yeaaaaaa!Deanna has received San �;j':lo,CA
caregivers in order for the primary care the award of "National Christian Child Maria the owner is giving a 10% dis-
givers to relax and enjoy the getaway. Provider of the Year".This distinguished count on all her merchandise. She sells
Temporary domestic help and other ser- award was presented to Deanna by the new and almost new clothes,equipment
vices can also be provided. Christian Child and Family Services and toys and Pinatas. Phone 235-3542
Association at their 41st Annual confer- for info and hours.
Although Time Out's primary focus is on ence.
parents of children with a wide range of
disabilities,anyone who is a caretaker of An interesting note about this award is
an individual with special needs is eligi- that Deanna is only the fifth person in the
ble. Time Out is dedicated to providing history of this award that actually takes
caregivers some rest and relaxation and
■
Me foster fa:t Weraft Page 4
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■
Zbt foster family Y#eralb
1218 GREEHBROOK DRIVE
DANVU14 CALIFORNIA 94526
'Social Service Department Contra Please reply to:
Perfecto Villarreal 40 Douglas Drive
Director Costa Martinez,California 94553-4068
County (510)313-1583
Vii.. � - _ ,•
December 3, 1993
77
.STq COUh�
Mr. Stephen Warga, President
Contra Costa County Foster Parent Association
P.O. Box 2896
Antioch, CA 94531
Dear Mr. Warga:
This responds to your letter of November 11, 1993, and confirms the discussion and
agreements reached in our meeting of November 23, 1993, at which County Welfare
Director Villarreal, the Foster Parent Association Executive Team and the Children's
Services Administrative Team participated. I believe that meeting was productive and
went a long way toward resolving some of the problems which you identified in your
correspondence.
Many of your concerns describe foster parents' frustration around the Agency-Foster
Parents Agreement (SOC 156), which is routinely signed at the time a child is placed
in a foster home. This form was originally developed in the mid-1970s and was
revised in 1988. This form is required by state regulation in every placement situation
and sets forth in detail those activities to be carried out by the agency and activities to
be carried out by the foster parents. It is our view that in the overwhelming majority of
case situations, the Department and its social workers carry out the provisions of the
agreement in good faith. However, it is conceded that in individual situations the
Department may have departed from the specific provisions of the agreement. We
have accepted as our task to increase compliance with all provisions of the
agreement.
Our discussion of the issues on November 23 provided an opportunity for each
participant to share personal and philosophical thoughts. We were able to develop a
pian of action for each of the concerns which relate to the Agreement. Discussed
below are the actions to which we agreed.
Concern Regarding Item #4 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to not remove the
child with less than seven calendar days written notice unless....
Action: It is the policy of our Department that workers abide by the agreement not to
remove children with less than seven calendar days written notice except under the
conditions specified. The Department has, in recent weeks, and will continue to
address this concern with staff. Discussion has taken place among Division Managers
Mr. Stephen Warga, President
December 3, 1993
Page 2
and their respective supervisors. Both groups are expected to emphasize the
necessity of this mandate to social workers. Foster parents should bring such a
matter to the attention of the Social Work Unit Supervisor when satisfactory
arrangements cannot be made with the social worker.
As you are aware, foster parents have a similar contractual obligation to advise the
Department seven days before they wish a child removed. An abrupt move of a child
has a potential for trauma to the child. I believe that we are agreed that regardless
who is requesting the move, the more planning that can be done prior to the move the
better for the child.
Concern Regarding Item #11 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to provide Medi-Cal
card or other medical coverage at the time of placement, arrange for medical
examination within 30 days unless child has had such within the past six months and
information is available.
Action: In the vast number of cases, the children placed by the Department have
coverage through the Medi-Cal system. If the evidence of coverage cannot be
provided at the time the child is placed, in most cases such evidence is provided to
the foster parent within a few days. We would hope that foster parents will bear in
mind that children are placed and cared for under the provisions of a welfare program
and the Department is required to provide benefits based upon a means test and to
minimize the expenditure of public resources when other resources may exist.
However, the Department will streamline procedures for providing medical coverage at
the time of placement and for arranging for physical exams within 30 days when such
an exam is deemed to be necessary. When foster parents encounter problems in this
area, we would expect them to bring their concern to the attention to the Social Work
Unit Supervisor immediately so a proper resolution can be made.
Concern Regarding Item #8 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to provide procedure
for grievances of foster parents.
Action: The Department is currently developing a written policy which establishes a
grievance procedure. This will be a procedure which will be mid-way in complexity
and formality between administrative remedies already available (e.g., phoning Unit
Supervisor or Division Manager) and requests for a fair hearing, which is provided for
in state law. A copy of the draft material will be forwarded to the Association within
the next three weeks for comment.
Concern Regarding Item #9 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to contact the child
and the foster parents at least once a month. If a case plan would indicate less
frequent contact, the foster parent will be informed.
Mr. Stephen Warga, President
December 3, 1993
Page 3
Action: Under certain conditions the state allows less frequent contacts than once a
month for a child. The Department agrees to emphasize with workers to advise foster
parents when such a decision has been reached on an individual case. Foster
parents are free to contact social workers whenever they have a need to do so. We
would always hope that contacts made by the social worker have a purpose which
transcends the rote requirement to contact which is found in regulation. We would
expect that contacts initiated by the social worker and contacts initiated by the foster
parents would occur as often as necessary to ensure the well-being of the child.
The Department is currently reviewing for implementation Senate Bill 1125, which may
change state requirements in this particular area. Foster parents will be advised when
these changes are implemented by the Department.
It should be borne in mind by all that the requirements for contact were developed
many years ago and written into regulation when state funding and staffing was at a
much higher level than it is at present. Because of severe staffing shortage, the
Department will place its highest priority in making contacts which advance the needs
of the case situation and, therefore, we cannot guarantee that all contacts which are
required by regulation will be met.
Concern Regarding Item #14 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to provide assistance
with emergencies.
Action: The Department will reinforce instructions to staff to provide After Hours
emergency telephone number with each placement. The After Hours Emergency
Child Welfare staff is mandated to provide a response to situations in which a child is
in immediate danger. We will necessarily have a very conservative definition of what
constitutes an emergency and the level of assistance that we can provide after hours.
The Contra Costa County has historically provided after hours emergency response
service which is vastly superior and more comprehensive than that provided by
surrounding counties. Yet it will continue to be true that the Department will not be
able to respond to every request for assistance.
Concern Regarding Item #5 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to involve foster
parents in future planning for the child. The placement shall be reviewed every six
months.
Action: Since every child in placement receives by operation of the law a juvenile
court hearing everysix months, this item is not in dispute.
The Department is always interested in the suggestions and recommendations of the
foster parents since the foster parent has a different kind of knowledge of the child
than the social worker would normally have. However, it is true that the Department
has not always initiated contacts which would lead to the foster parents involvement in
Mr. Stephen Warga, President
December 3, 1993
Page 4
this way. At the meeting on November. 23, it was agreed that the Foster Parent
Association will develop and recommend to the Department a form which enable the
foster parent to provide written information to the social worker regarding future
planning for the child. Such a process may be invoked by the foster parents at any
time but will be especially important at the time that the recommendations may be
made to the juvenile court. This form may be mailed with the "Notice of Action". to
foster parents according to current procedures.
Concern Regarding Item #10 in the Agreement: Agency agrees to inform foster
parents that a child has any tendencies toward dangerous behavior.
Action: The Department agrees to re-emphasize with social workers full disclosure in
discussing with foster parents the details of a child's history with any foster parent who
is considering accepting the child's placement. The Department will not always have
full information in regard to a child's background. This will be especially true when a
child is placed on an emergency basis or when the child has recently come into our
system.
The Department agreed to explore ways for communicating with foster parents early in
their licensing process the different kinds of problems children may have and the
backgrounds from which they come. One suggestion accepted for exploration was a
mentoring program for the Department for the "new foster parent".
The Department is assessing the possibility of utilizing additional state revenues for an
ombudsman program.
Concern Regarding Item #13 in the Agreement: Agency agrees, in cooperation with
foster parents, to arrange for visiting by parents and relatives on
Action: The substance of this particular issue was not discussed in detail. We would
recommend that this item be taken up at our next meeting, now scheduled for early
February 1994. There was general agreement of the need for more effective
communication between Unit Supervisors and foster parents; the Division Managers
have agreed to arrange quarterly meetings in their respective offices between Unit
Supervisors and foster parents.
If you find that your notes differ from my understanding of the results of our meeting,
please let me know as soon as possible.
The Department has also identified that the foster parent handbook, prepared and
supplied by the Department, is in need of revision. We will expect to make this
revision as part of our implementation of Senate Bill 1125 which will occur in 1994. We
hope that the revised handbook will give individual foster parents a greater
Mr. Stephen Warga, President
December 3, 1993
Page 5
understanding of the children's services process and will respond to questions and
concerns raised in our discussions.
While we as a group focused primarily on items you had identified, it is the intent of
the Department to emphasize to staff the importance of carrying out the requirements
of the agency-foster parent agreement in its entirety.
The Department makes every effort to operate an agency which focuses on the needs
of children, values the contributions of the foster parent to the child welfare team, and
has a high professional expectation of its staff at all levels. We believe that the
handling of the cases of the more than 2,000 children in placement are for the most
part handled correctly and professionally. We are very proud of our professional staff
who do valiant work toward protecting children and reunifying families under most
difficult conditions. We would like to continue the reputation which we enjoy and,
therefore, would urge the Foster Parent Association to urge their members to bring to
the attention of the Department's management any case of staff behavior which falls
below professional standards. We must have a fair opportunity to correct failings as
soon as they occur if we are to continue to improve our relationship and our service to
children.
The Department shares the vision of the Foster Parent Association in wanting to
establish and maintain a positive environment in which meeting the needs of children
is a common objective in providing for the needs of children at risk a priority. We, too,
believe that both organizations must make every effort to minimize barriers which deter
from meeting that objective.
Sincerely yours,
onne Bullock
ssistant County Welfare Director
YB:CU:ds
cc: Perfecto Villarreal, County Welfare Director
Children's Services Administrative Team
7-;
44
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY LONG TERM PLACEMENT DATA
(6/84 - 6/93)
Maior Points:
1. Number of placements more than doubled.
2. Relative percentage of relative care givers increased, while percentage in
licensed homes or group homes declined.
3. Children in placement are younger.
4. African-American children are overepresented, based on percentage in
overall population.
SupportingStatistics: 6/84 1980 6/93 1990 %Diff-
Census Census erence
Number in placement 1070 2374 +122%
Populadon under 18 181,009 202,008 +12%
Number in foster homes 538 915 +70%
Percent in foster homes 50% 39%
Number in group homes- 181 209 +15%
Percent in group homes 17% 9%
Number with relatives 246 1105 +349%
Percent with relatives 23% 47%
Placements age 0 - 9 1159
Percent 0- 9 54%
Population age 0- 9 89,773 118,995 +32%
Percent Populadon 0- 9 50010 59%
Placements age 10 - 17 975
Percent 10- 17 46%
Population age 10- 17 91,236 83,133 .8%
Percent Population 10 17 50010 0%
Placement Ethnicity
White 34%
Hispanic 7%
Black 57%
Population Ethnicity
White 77% 70%
Hispanic 9% 11%
mcif 9% 9%
TOTAL P 02'
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY LONG TERM PLACEMENT DATA
(6/84 - 6/93)
Major Points:
1. Number of placements more than doubled.
2. Relative percentage of relative care givers increased, while percentage in
licensed homes or group homes declined.
3. Children in placement are younger.
4. African-American children are overepresented, based on percentage in
overall population.
Supporting Statistics: 6/84 1980 8/93 1990 9A D i ff-
Census Census erence
Number in placement 1070 2374 +122%
Population under 18 181,009 202,008 +12%
Number in foster homes' 538 915 +70%
Percent in foster homes 50% 39%
Number in group homes 181 209 +159'
Percent in group homes 17% 9%
Number with relatives 246 1105 +349%
Percent with relatives 23% 47%
Placements age 0 - 9 1159
Percent 0- 9 54%
Population age 0- 9 89,773 f 18,995 +32%
Percent Population 0. 9 50% 59%
Placements age 10 - 17 975
Percent 10- 17 46%
Population age 10. 17 91,236 83,133 -8% 1
Percent Population 10 - 17 50% 41%
PlacementEthnicity
White 34
Hispanic 7%
Black 57%
Population Ethnicity
White 77% 70%
Hispanic 9% 11%
IF- Black 9%
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contra Taste TountV Faster Parent Association
Box 2896
Antioch, CA 94531
December 12, 1993
TO Claude Van Marter,
Assistant County Administrator
FROM Stephen D. Warga
President, Foster Parent Association
RE REPORT TO INTERNAL OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
SUBJ Foster Parent Association Grievances
We generally are pleased with the progress towards improved
relations between Social Service Department personnel and Foster
Parents. Time constraints prevent us from jointly signing the
Department's summary of our discussions, dated December 3 , 1993 and
signed by Yvonne Bullock, Assistant County Welfare Director. We're
submitting this separate memo in response.
The only disagreement we have with the aforementioned letter
is with the discussion on page 3 regarding frequency of contacts
between Social Workers and Foster Parents. The language of the
placement agreement (SOC 156) is clear and specific:
"Agency agrees to . . . #9 Contact the child and
foster parents at least once a month. If case
plan would indicate less frequent contacts, the
foster parent will be informed. "
It is not acceptable for the Department to state, " . . . we cannot
guarantee that all contacts which are required by regulation will
be met. " We expect the Department to honor the mandates of their
agreements.
The Association and the Department are to meet again in
February to assess the progress of our resolutions. After that
meeting, we expect a summary memo to be drafted and mailed to all
CPS personnel and all Foster Parents. If our expectations are not
reasonably met, we will request an appearance before the IO
Committee again.
Camra Tuata TountV ,water jhtrient Assuxiatt`uu
Box 2896
Antioch, CA 94531
December 12, 1993
TO Claude Van Marter,
Assistant County Administrator
FROM Stephen D. Warga
President, Foster Parent Association
RE FOSTER HOME RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION PROJECT UPDATE
SUBJ Foster Parent Association Response
We wish to note the following exceptions to the report from
Social Service Department submitted for 1993 .
PAGE 1 - Children in care
Where are the data regarding the number of children in
care? Without those numbers, it is impossible to assess
the true impact of a net 8% decrease in the number of
licensed foster homes.
PAGE 3 - Jan McDonald
While it is true that Jan McDonald, Foster Home Licensing
Recruiter retired suddenly in January, the wording in
this report appear critical of her. The facts are
critical more of the Department than Ms. McDonald.
She was offered early retirement as were a number of
other Department personnel . She had all of 5 days to
make a decision. Why she accepted the offer is
immaterial since the Department tendered it for her
consideration.
Immediately upon acceptance of early retirement, Ms.
McDonald became persona non grata. Her subsequent offers
to assist, voluntarily with Foster Parent issues have
been rebuffed.
We question why County budget problems preclude the
hiring of a replacement. If Ms. McDonald had refused the
early retirement option, the County would still be paying
her salary. Why not pay someone else to replace her?
1
PAGE 4 - ORIENTATION MEETINGS
The facts are not stated clearly. Currently, prospective
licensees attend only one "orientation/training" meeting.
Prior to Ms. McDonald's retirement, prospective Foster
Parents were required to attend two sessions for a total
of about 5 hours. Even that was inadequate preparation
for the demands of Foster Parenting.
We take strong exception to the current practice.
Referring to a single introductory meeting as a training
would be laughable if not for the very serious
consequences of placing damaged children into the
homes of unsuspecting, ill-prepared, novice Foster
Parents.
Training of new Foster Parents cannot be dismissed as a
County budget problem.
PAGE 5 - Heritage Project
The feedback to our Executive Board regarding this
program is generally negative. Reports indicate nearly
all of the participants are seasoned Foster Parents, not
new recruits. We also receive complaints of an undue
emphasis on issues of race and ethnicity. The Heritage
Project has not sought cooperation or support from the
Foster Parent Association.
The Departments report is suspiciously lacking in hard
data regarding the success of this program in recruiting
new Foster Parents.
While relations between Foster Parents and the Department are
improving, the issues addressed in this report continue to be of
concern to the Foster Parent Association.
2