Federal child welfare officials call on 39 governors to preserve survivor benefits for children in foster care.
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) sent letters to the governors of 39 states urging immediate changes to child welfare practices that allow agencies to intercept foster youths’ Social Security survivor benefits. These benefits have been earned through a deceased parent’s work history and are intended to support the child, but many states redirect the funds to reimburse state foster care costs. Federal officials say this practice reduces financial stability for young people as they transition out of care.
“Every earned benefit dollar belongs to these foster youth, not the government agencies or bureaucrats,” said Assistant Secretary Alex Adams. “Protecting children is the core mission of child welfare, and we will keep the best interests of the child front and center in all our efforts.”
Only 11 states currently prohibit the practice of diverting survivor benefits. The ACF agency, in coordination with the Social Security Administration, intends to provide technical assistance and resources to help remaining states revise their policies. Federal leaders cited Idaho’s reforms as an example of how states can preserve these benefits for foster youth.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Kennedy to be led by God as he oversees the effort to ensure children in foster care receive their deceased parents’ benefits.
- For Assistant Secretary Adams as he works with states to protect the financial interests of children in foster care.
- For governors and state child welfare agencies as they review and update policies that affect vulnerable youth.
Sources: Department of Health and Human Services
