Monitors overseeing foster care reform efforts note 'good faith' in DHS' progress

Oklahoma City -The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to make significant progress as it implements the wide range of reform efforts to improve Oklahoma's foster care system. It is gratifying the Co-Neutrals have recognized the agency's additional numerous good faith efforts from this Commentary to their last Commentary.

"We continue to receive positive feedback from the Co-Neutrals, particularly about the agency's efforts in dramatically decreasing shelter care use, achieving stable and manageable caseloads, and preventing the actual maltreatment of children who are in the custody and care of DHS," said Ed Lake, Director of DHS.

It is also important to note that the data from this most recent commentary reflects the Department's efforts through June of this last year. Data from the most recent six months, however, appears to show even more improvement.

"Based upon our on-going consultations and work with the Co-Neutrals, we have every reason to believe our progress will continue and are optimistic that this will be reflected in their next commentary," said Lake. "We are grateful to the thousands of dedicated child welfare services staff members and the many partners and providers who work together with us to serve the children of this state."

###