Santa Clara County's Civil Grand Jury reported inadequate performance by the child welfare agency in supporting older youth in foster care. The agency's historical failure to meet its goals raises concerns about leadership capabilities. Recommendations were made to appoint a senior leader responsible for improvement strategies by September 1, which includes quarterly updates, higher stipends for challenging foster youth placements, and enhanced staffing at county-run group homes. The agency has faced scrutiny over the fentanyl-related death of Baby Phoenix Castro and unlicensed group home operations, with the newly appointed director facing skepticism regarding improvements.
The report revealed that Santa Clara County's child welfare agency has consistently failed to fulfill its commitments to improve care for older youth, indicating serious leadership doubts.
The recommendations include appointing a senior leader for foster teens, with public updates on progress and increased stipends for foster parents caring for challenging youths.
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