LOS ANGELES – On behalf of social workers who serve the children in the Los Angeles County foster care system we are deeply saddened by any death of a child. We are Children’s Social Workers because of our passion for children and our desire to ensure they are happy, healthy and safe, and to reunite loving families whenever possible.

We have reunited thousands of families and connected children and parents with counseling and recovery. Family bonds are fundamental and when they are broken by abuse or neglect there are no easy choices.

Unfortunately, our mission has become increasingly hard to achieve as we are asked to protect more children with fewer resources. And, because of the economic downturn we are concerned that times will soon get more difficult not better. In fact, just yesterday the Board of Supervisors announced budget cuts that will most likely impact the Department of Children and Family Services among other key services for Los Angeles’ families.

We serve more than 32,000 children and their families in Los Angeles County. The cases we handle are extremely complicated and demand intensive commitment and attention, which we provide. Anything less is indefensible. In light of recent reports we call on Los Angeles County officials to: 

• Adequately fund and staff DCFS. For too long social workers have raised concerns about the number of children under each workers’ watch, but the number of children has increased in many cases. Without a comprehensive plan additional requirements as a result of recent legal settlements, including expanded use of mental health assessments, could spread care even thinner. The county must properly staff and fund all initiatives.
• Use technology to improve coordination between County departments. There is no reason why social workers should not have access to relevant information concerning their clients from other departments such as the Departments of Public Social Services, Health Services and Mental Health