Let's Talk New Mexico 5/11/23: On the last Let’s Talk New Mexico we discussed our state’s troubled foster care system. After many listener calls and emails and many new questions, we’ve decided to continue the conversation this week – focusing on solutions.
Three years ago, the state settled the Kevin S. lawsuit where they promised to meet targets to implement a trauma-responsive system of care, start placing foster youth in appropriate housing arrangements, expand upon the Indian Child Welfare Act, and expand capacity to provide community-based mental and behavioral health services. However, even with deadlines extended during the pandemic the state had only met 11 of its 49 targets as of mid 2021.
On this week’s show we’ll hear from advocates, law makers, and foster families about how the state should move forward to improve the system. We’ll take a closer look at expanding housing, family interventions, and ways to improve mental health services. Were you a foster kid or foster family with ideas to improve the system? Share your experience by emailing letstalk@kunm.org or call in live during the show at 505-277-5866.
Guests:
- Rudy Bolt, former foster child
- Dr. Neal Bowen, Director, Behavioral Services Division, New Mexico Human Services Department
- Danielle Branch, took guardianship of a young family member
- Teresa Casados, Interim Secretary, New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department
- George Davis, CYFD’s former Chief Psychiatrist, now child advocate
- State Senator Crystal Diamond, R-Elephant Butte
- Rachael Fowler, biological parent who regained custody of her children
Related Reading:
- "Attorney cites ‘egregious ongoing misconduct’ by CYFD," Albuquerque Journal
- "New Mexico Foster Child and Youth Bill of Rights," CYFD
- Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's February 2023 order to reorganize CYFD, "Transforming service for children, youth and families and the Children, Youth and Families Department."
- Nowhere to Go, Searchlight New Mexico
This coverage is made possible by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and KUNM listeners.
