The total of kids removed because of suspected abuse or neglect has fallen steadily after reaching its highest level in 20 years last summer. State officials say the trend is evidence that its embattled child welfare system is turning a corner.
foster care
Posted inTimes Record
At Midcoast Humane, fostering pets can feel like a time warp
I have tried explaining to those who have never worked in a shelter that time is funny inside shelter walls, and I always end up sounding like a “Star Trek” episode. Time moves differently in the shelter; some days moving so slowly that half a day feels like a week and other days moving so […]
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Posted inLocal & State, News
Portland Housing Authority has new vouchers for youth exiting foster care
For the last four years, the authority has been circulating 17 housing vouchers for young people aging out of foster care. Now they are getting an additional 13.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Judge approves settlement reforming use of psychotropic drugs for foster children
As part of the settlement, the state will develop a new portable health records system, create informed consent procedures and implement additional reviews.
Posted inLocal & State, News
Number of Maine children in state custody rises to 20-year high
There are 468 more children in protective custody now than 6 years ago, when state officials faced fresh scrutiny in the wake of 2 high-profile child deaths. What’s driving the increase?
Posted inSponsored
Adopted by a teen: how one Maine family bonded with children at every stage
Stephanie and Jennie were long-time Maine resource parents when they met 15-year-old Natalie. Already the parents of two young children, they learned they could also make a difference in the life of an older child.
Posted inSponsored
Maine needs Resource Parents. What do they do?
Being a resource parent isn’t just helping a child, but their whole family, while always maintaining the priority of the child’s well-being.
Posted inArts & Entertainment, Books, Review
Two Maine authors turn their life stories into novels in verse
‘The Road to After’ and ‘The Name She Gave Me’ draw on the writers’ own circumstances, as they grew up in — and found their way out of — dysfunctional families.
Posted inMaine Voices, Op-eds, Opinion
Maine Voices: Hard work is happening to protect children, support families
We’ve pursued solid policy decisions grounded in facts, consideration of multiple perspectives and fair and productive dialogue.
Posted inMaine Voices, Op-eds, Opinion
Maine Voices: Foster care system is only as good as those who choose to be part of it
National Foster Care Month is the time to learn about the many dedicated Maine foster parents like Laurie and Chris Tomascik, who have helped kids succeed in school and life.