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Board urges expanded foster-parent training and recruitment; respite stipends discussed
Summary
Board members highlighted gaps in training and recruitment for foster and respite caregivers, mentioned costly advertising methods, and said the department is piloting programs to recruit older-youth caregivers and considering stipends for respite capacity.
Board members at the May 21 meeting emphasized the need for more accessible and varied training opportunities for foster parents and for more resources to recruit diverse caregivers. Kourtney Cluster pressed for consistent staff understanding of the recon notices and noted that some local offices use costly methods—movie theater ads and billboards—to recruit foster parents; the department is exploring alternatives and pilot programs focused on older youth.
Members also flagged a critical shortage of respite providers and discussed offering a stipend to secure emergency bed availability. The department said it is exploring pilot programs and recruitment strategies that vary by youth population and cost considerations; the board suggested increased outreach and informational materials to support recruitment.
