A powerful call for increased funding and support for Michigan's child welfare services emerged during a recent meeting of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Human Services. Key stakeholders from the Michigan Federation for Children and Families presented a united front, emphasizing the critical role community-based organizations play in the state's child welfare system.

Katie Prowt, Chief Strategy Officer of the Federation, highlighted that their member organizations deliver nearly all family preservation, independent living, and adoption services, as well as over half of foster care and juvenile justice services across Michigan. "Every budget decision you make echoes through the lives of Michigan's children," Prowt stated, urging committee members to ensure that community providers receive adequate resources to maintain high-quality services.

The Federation's budget priorities for fiscal year 2026 include a request for $4.9 million for adoption support services and $1.9 million for independent living programs aimed at older youth. They also seek to close the foster care funding gap and expand family preservation services, which help keep families together in their communities. Additionally, Prowt called for a cost-of-living adjustment in contracts to better reimburse providers for the actual costs of service delivery.

Jason Schroff, Chief Operating Officer at Wellspring Lutheran Services, echoed these sentiments, sharing insights from his organization's long history of supporting families in need. He emphasized the importance of adequate funding to sustain the vital work done by nonprofit organizations throughout the state.

The discussions underscored a pressing need for legislative action to bolster Michigan's child welfare system, ensuring that every child and family has access to the necessary services for their well-being. As the committee considers these budget requests, the future of many vulnerable families hangs in the balance, highlighting the importance of community support and effective policy decisions.