an overview georgia program improvement plan - Department of ...

The stakeholder interviews held during the CFSR on-site review indicated that the state did not have an adequate pool of placement resources to meet the needs of children coming
into care.
To improve in this finding the state has completed the following actions:
At the Regional level, the Community Resource Specialists (in lieu of Regional Resource Development Staff) have assumed responsibility for the public relations and
community outreach to include recruitment activities.
An additional $800,000.00 was allocated for foster care recruitment during the 2003 legislative session.
We increased the per diem for private agency foster homes.
We implemented a statewide foster parent support poster campaign. We developed draft desk reference to assist staff in everyday retention/support activities.
We automated the Foster Care and Adoption Recruitment and Reporting System. At the end of SFY 2005 the state will use this data to publish statewide recruitment and
retention outcomes for resource families who foster and adopt. The publication will also provide profiles of regional needs, accomplishments and outcomes for families
who inquire to adopt. Additionally, the report will provide information regarding placement needs and available resources.
In conclusion, Georgia has made substantial, significant progress in addressing deficiencies identified in its first Child and Family Services Review. The lives of children will
continue to improve for years to come as a result of this outcome focus on improving the child welfare system.
Safe Futures – A Plan for Program Improvement
Georgia Department of Human Resources
November, 2004 Quarter 8 – Table of Contents Page xxiii