For Foster Children in Northwestern Oklahoma, Care Lies Miles Beyond the Horizon

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- Oklahoma faces a shortage of quality foster homes for abused and neglected children, but in the sparsely populated area of northwestern Oklahoma, miles of lonely highway compound the problem.
“We have a critical need for quality foster homes in our area of the state,” said Becky Cole, Oklahoma Department of Human Services Area I Foster Care Resource and Retention Specialist. “There are 23 county offices that comprise the OKDHS Area 1, and within this nearly 25,000 square mile space, there are only 189 foster families to help support more than 620 foster children."

Of the more than 620 children in foster care in northwestern Oklahoma, more than half cannot be placed in their community due to the lack of foster homes. Of the 18 counties that make up Area 1, 13 counties have more than half of their foster children placed over the county line. This is especially troublesome in the most remote places like Texas, Woods and Alfalfa counties.

The lack of foster homes in the area is especially hard on sibling groups. “It’s a challenge to place sibling groups together even when there are enough foster homes because not all foster parents will take siblings,” said Cole. “Placing them in different counties makes it more difficult for them to visit each other. It’s not uncommon to have to take them out of school early to make the long drive so they can see their brothers and sisters.”

The miles also hamper the reunification process. “Having to take them from county to county disrupts their schooling, takes them away from their friends and their churches,” said Cole. “It’s important for these kids to stay connected since they’ve been removed from their homes. The fewer losses these children have the better.”

Cole added, “There are also economic concerns as well. The cost of transporting these children across county lines adds up both in time and money. And a lot of these rural schools are already strapped for cash, losing a student doesn’t help. Not to mention child care providers.”

“Native American foster homes are also very hard to come by in this part of the state,” said Coal. “We have more than 80 Native American foster children, but only seven Native American foster homes.” According to the Indian Child Welfare Act, preference is given to Native American foster homes when placing Native American foster children. Six of the 39 tribal governments located in Oklahoma are based in Area 1.

“It would be easier on everyone if these kids could be placed in their hometown,” said Cole. “Unfortunately, until we have more people step up and help, we’ll continue to have to go where the foster homes are, and out here, that usually means a long, long drive.”

To become a foster parent you must be at least 21 years old and financially stable. You do not have to own your own home and you can be married or single. There can be a maximum of only five foster children in the home and six children total.

When you become a foster parent, you will receive a monthly reimbursement from the State to help meet the needs of the foster child. Liability insurance, medical, dental and mental health benefits will also be provided to the foster child. Childcare assistance is available for foster parents who work 20 hours or more a week.

If you or someone you know would like to experience the rewards of becoming a foster parent, or if you would like to become a volunteer, please call 1-800-376-9729, or go to www.OKDHS.org. To learn more about adoption, call the SWIFT Adoption hotline at 1-877-OKSWIFT, or got to www.OKDHS.org. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call 1-800-522-3511, or contact your local OKDHS county office.

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