Child Services board cites expanded supports for foster families and court‑ordered needs

Shelley Juste, speaking for the Child Services board, told commissioners the board has expanded supports for foster families and for children who enter protective custody, including increased clothing assistance, transportation stipends and funding to cover court‑ordered travel or activities that state funding does not reliably cover. She said the board has boosted the amount available for age‑appropriate clothing and added supports like helmets, summer camps, musical instruments and emergency hotel rooms and beds.

Juste emphasized that small, targeted supports can keep children connected to school and peers and avoid unnecessary court sanctions for families who lack funds to comply with orders. “We’ve been able to increase our clothing request amount,” she said, and listed a broad set of items the board helped provide this year. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the practical work and noted the board’s role stepping in where state funding does not reach.

No formal action was taken; the presentation served as an informational report and request for continuing county partnership.