Warehouses of Neglect: Abuse in U.S. Residential Foster Care Facilities

In this episode of Rights and Remedies, we examine the deeply troubling findings of a recent U.S. Senate Committee report on foster care residential treatment facilities: “Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities.”

These congregate care facilities are supposed to provide care and support for some of our most vulnerable youth. Instead, facilities owned by four companies—Universal Health Services (“UHS”), Acadia Healthcare, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and Vivant Behavioral Healthcare (or Sequel Youth and Family Services)—prioritize profit over the safety and wellbeing of children.  

We discuss the abuses and maltreatment of children occurring at these facilities as well as the report’s recommendations to improve conditions are congregate care facilities and ensure children are safe. 

Note! [Please be advised that this episode discusses child abuse, institutional abuse, and sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some listeners. If you need to take a break or skip this episode, please do so and prioritize your well-being.] 

What You’ll Learn: 

Insight #1:  

How four companies that operate residential treatment facilities—UHS, Acadia, Devereux, and Vivant (or Sequel)—are prioritizing profit over the wellbeing and safety of children. 

Insight #2:  

What reforms are needed to protect the most vulnerable young people in foster care. 

Key Takeaways: 

1. Residential treatment facilities owned by UHS, Acadia, Devereux, and Vivant (or Sequel) are dangerous placements for children in foster care, because these four companies prioritize profit over the wellbeing of children.  

2. Young people placed in foster care residential facilities experience unsafe and unsanitary conditions as well as emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. 

 

Resources/Links: 

Warehouses of Neglect: How Taxpayers Are Funding Systemic Abuse in Youth Residential Treatment Facilities  

The October 2024 APSAC Advisor 

 

 

Get Legal Help:  

Have you been harmed in a foster care residential facility? If so, ALM Law is offering a free consultation to help you understand your options. Schedule your 15-minute consultation today to learn more. 

Call: 970 - 315 – 5152 

Check our website at almlawllc.com