The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) has issued a statement in response to the Co-Neutrals’ 2024 annual report concerning the state's child welfare system under the Kevin S. Settlement Agreement. The department's new leadership is focusing on accelerating reforms across various aspects of child welfare.
In September, CYFD leaders began implementing strategies to enhance the agency's operations. "This work is already bearing fruit and will yield even more results in the lives, experiences and futures for New Mexico’s vulnerable children, young people and families," according to their statement.
To tackle staffing issues, CYFD launched a Workforce Strikeforce in October aimed at improving recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of qualified staff. They are working to streamline the hiring process from an average of 81 days down to 45-50 days. Their Clear Path case closure initiative has led to over 1,300 case closures recently, with plans to close an additional 1,000 investigations by late November. This aims to reduce caseloads so workers can focus more on children's needs.
Efforts are also underway to increase safe placements for children by recruiting new licensed foster and resource homes. The department is expanding resources and financial support for foster parents. The Foster Care Plus program is being rolled out to provide comprehensive services for families caring for children with special needs. This includes evidence-based training and behavioral health services along with a $400 monthly supplemental payment approved in October. By December's end, they aim to serve 50 children through this program.
CYFD is addressing the issue of children staying overnight in offices by expediting placements into foster homes and ensuring access to necessary behavioral, educational, and therapeutic services through medical professionals and counselors.
"The department always puts the safety and well-being of children first," said Kathyleen Kunkel, deputy cabinet secretary of CYFD and acting executive director of the Kevin S. Team. She emphasized CYFD's commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Kevin S. Settlement Agreement.
The full Co-Neutrals’ 2024 annual report can be accessed [here](2024%20Kevin%20S.%20v.%20Blalock%20Co-Neutrals%E2%80%99%20Annual%20Report.pdf).
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