South Dakota, a state known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has once again found itself grappling with a significant social issue. Recently released data highlight the ongoing challenge of Native American children’s overrepresentation in the state’s foster care system. At the end of fiscal year 2024, Native American children accounted for 72.5% of the foster care population, a slight decrease from the 74% reported in 2023.
This percentage starkly contrasts with Native American children’s presence in the general population of South Dakota, being about seven times higher, according to a detailed report by the South Dakota Department of Social Services. As fiscal years in South Dakota run from July to June, this insight from the department’s annual Child Protection Services report holds immense significance for policymakers and community leaders aiming to address the issue.
Of the 1,710 children in foster care in South Dakota at the close of fiscal year 2024, a staggering 1,239 were Native American. This overrepresentation has been the focus of numerous investigations, including a comprehensive piece entitled “The Lost Children” by South Dakota Searchlight in partnership with the Argus Leader. These investigations aim to examine the root causes, effects, and possible solutions to this issue.
The Department of Social Services has embarked on several initiatives to tackle this imbalance. Nearly 30% of children, irrespective of their ethnicity, have been placed in kinship care, staying with relatives or close family friends. While 85% of children are kept in familial settings with foster families, the department is working hard to further enhance kinship placements.
South Dakota has also announced plans to introduce a Kinship Licensing Program next year. This program is expected to equip more family members or relatives to care for children, aligning with trends of prioritizing kinship care in safeguarding children’s well-being. However, kinship caregivers currently do not receive the same level of resources or financial support as licensed foster parents unless they complete a rigorous licensing process.
Pamela Bennett
Child welfare research strongly supports kinship care, noting its positive impacts on academic, behavioral, and mental health outcomes for children. It also ensures children remain connected to their culture and communities. Pamela Bennett, a leading voice within South Dakota Child Protection Services, has been vocal about the benefits of kinship care, stating at an Indian Child Welfare Advisory Council meeting, “What we know is when parents and children can be together and both go through those changes and processes and see that behavior change at the same time, we tend to see better outcomes.”
South Dakota Department of Social Services
As South Dakota moves forward, the development of the federally mandated Family First Prevention Plan is a crucial endeavor. This three-year plan aims to utilize federal funds for prevention services without uprooting children from their homes, concentrating on keeping families together and addressing risks upfront. Despite its importance, South Dakota is among the last four states to implement this initiative, raising concerns about the pace of reforms.
The 2024 Child Protection Services report underscores various outcomes for the 1,006 children who exited the welfare system during the fiscal year. Impressively, 493 were reunited with their families, 233 were adopted (a majority by foster parents), and others found guardianship or tribal program arrangements.
Nevertheless, the report also contained somber news: two children in state care died and another two ran away, prompting ongoing inquiries for more information. Such incidents highlight the need for continued vigilance and reform in the child welfare system.
The South Dakota Department of Social Services is actively seeking to enhance its services, using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to connect with the community. Led by Matt Althoff, the cabinet secretary for the department, they showcase job openings and updates on their official website.
As South Dakota confronts these challenges, rallying community support and utilizing cultural and family ties can pave a pathway towards profound systemic changes. With strategic interventions and a focus on family-centered care, there’s hope for a brighter future for the state’s children.
Contact the South Dakota Department of Social Services for more information on current initiatives and support systems in place for foster care and kinship caregivers.
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