DSS faces crisis as foster care numbers soar

During a recent government meeting, officials from the Department of Social Services (DSS) provided an update on personnel, operational challenges, and emerging issues affecting child welfare in Burke County. The DSS reported a current staffing level of 199 full-time equivalents (FTEs), reflecting significant growth over the past five years, including six new positions added in 2023 due to Medicaid expansion funding. Despite this growth, the agency faces high demand, particularly with a notable increase in the number of children in foster care, currently at approximately 185, which is significantly higher than neighboring counties.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges related to child placements, with a statewide shortage of foster care options exacerbating the situation. Officials noted that many children in foster care experience trauma, leading to higher needs and complicating placement efforts. The DSS is actively working to recruit more foster parents to address this issue, but the lack of available placements remains a pressing concern.

Additionally, the DSS reported operational difficulties following a recent disaster that caused power outages and water damage to their building. Staff temporarily relocated to a higher education center while environmental testing was conducted. They have since returned to their facility and are exploring long-term solutions for human services locations.

In response to the recent hurricane, the DSS will launch a Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP) to assist residents who typically do not receive EBT or SNAP benefits. This program is expected to draw significant participation, and officials are preparing for high demand.

The meeting concluded with a call for community support for children in foster care, as the DSS seeks to collect gifts for approximately 200 children during the holiday season. The agency aims to engage around 500 donors to help spread the cost of gifts, ensuring that these children receive support during a challenging time.

Overall, the meeting underscored the critical issues facing child welfare services in Burke County, particularly the need for increased foster care placements and community involvement in supporting vulnerable children.