Humboldt County Child Welfare Services honors social workers during appreciation month

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors recently held a meeting to honor Social Worker Appreciation Month, highlighting the vital work of the Department of Health and Human Services Child Welfare Services (CWS). The presentation, led by Director Amanda Winstead and her team, emphasized the complexities and challenges faced by social workers in the community.

Winstead opened the discussion by acknowledging the significant role that social workers play in addressing child safety and welfare. She noted that approximately 30 to 40% of their caseload involves Native American children, prompting the establishment of a dedicated Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) program. This initiative aims to improve services for Native American families and ensure their involvement in the child welfare process. Winstead expressed pride in the program, stating it is becoming one of the best in the state.

Program Manager Kim Schneider elaborated on the CWS process, which includes receiving reports of child abuse, conducting investigations, and providing support to families. She highlighted the emotional demands of the job and the commitment of social workers who operate 24/7 to ensure child safety. Schneider reported that the hotline for child abuse and neglect received over 3,200 referrals in the past year, underscoring the community's reliance on these services.

The meeting also covered various intervention programs, including family maintenance and family reunification, which aim to keep children safe while supporting families. The CWS team collaborates with community partners, including law enforcement and educational institutions, to assess and address the needs of families involved in the system.

Additionally, the ICWA program was discussed in detail, with Program Manager Pam Miller explaining its focus on culturally appropriate services for Native American families. The program emphasizes collaboration with tribal partners to ensure that decisions regarding child welfare are made with respect for tribal sovereignty.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the support staff who play crucial roles behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth operation of the CWS. The Board of Supervisors expressed gratitude for the dedication and resilience of social workers, reinforcing the importance of their work in safeguarding the well-being of children in Humboldt County.

This presentation not only highlighted the challenges faced by social workers but also showcased the ongoing efforts to improve child welfare services, particularly for Native American communities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity in Humboldt County's approach to child welfare.