DCFS presents Garrett’s Law findings and annual report showing substance‑related entries and heavy use of in‑home services

CHILDREN AND YOUTH COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas

Michelle Martin, DCFS director, reported that Garrett’s Law reports increased slightly in SFY 2022, with marijuana the most‑frequently cited substance; overall DCFS data show 4,216 children in foster care and extensive in‑home services serving 12,676 children during the year.

Source: CHILDREN AND YOUTH COMMITTEE - SENATE - Dec 19, 2022 00:00

DYS director reports post‑COVID surge, plans to expand in‑home services and step‑down options

CHILDREN AND YOUTH COMMITTEE - SENATE, Senate, Committees, Legislative, Arkansas

Michael Crump, director of the Division of Youth Services, told the Children and Youth Committee that DYS saw a post‑COVID surge in juvenile commitments, is streamlining assessments, expanding intensive in‑home services and pursuing community reintegration cottages and vocational partnerships to reduce recidivism.

Source: CHILDREN AND YOUTH COMMITTEE - SENATE - Dec 19, 2022 00:00