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‘They’re all damaged.’ Despite progress, West Virginia is still failing to get foster kids the mental health help they need
A decade after a federal investigation found West Virginia unnecessarily institutionalizes foster kids, our investigation has found the state’s most vulnerable kids are still being left behind.
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West Virginia’s foster care system depends on grandfamilies. It does little to support their mental health needs.
Many seniors already face more challenges, like poverty and health conditions. When grandkids are placed in their care, those problems can worsen and grandparents are more likely to need mental health help.
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‘An ecosystem of dysfunction:’ West Virginia still has a child welfare worker shortage, and it’s taking a toll on foster kids and families
As West Virginia’s foster care system struggles to hire and retain workers amid low pay and overwhelming caseloads, it stresses foster families and keeps kids from getting the attention they need.