Let's Talk New Mexico 5/11/23: On the last Let鈥檚 Talk New Mexico we discussed our state鈥檚 troubled foster care system. After many listener calls and emails and many new questions, we鈥檝e decided to continue the conversation this week 鈥� focusing on solutions.
Three years ago, the state settled the 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 as of mid 2021.
On this week鈥檚 show we鈥檒l hear from advocates, law makers, and foster families about how the state should move forward to improve the system. We鈥檒l 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,
- Danielle Branch, took guardianship of a young family member
- Teresa Casados, Interim Secretary,
- George Davis, CYFD鈥檚 former Chief Psychiatrist, now child advocate
- State Senator , R-Elephant Butte
- Rachael Fowler, biological parent who regained custody of her children
Related Reading:
- "," Albuquerque Journal
- "," CYFD
- Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's February 2023 order to reorganize CYFD, "."
- , Searchlight New Mexico
This coverage is made possible by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and 91暗网 listeners.
