Looking Back to Look Forward in Child Welfare

In this episode of One in Ten, host Teresa Huizar speaks with Dr. Meg Sullivan, former Acting Assistant Secretary for the Administration of Children and Families, about the efforts and policies of the Biden administration in child welfare. The discussion explores challenges like preventing child abuse, the effectiveness of foster care placements, and strategies for addressing family neglect without primarily associating it with poverty. Dr. Sullivan highlights significant achievements, ongoing challenges, and promising practices like the Family First Prevention Act, which emphasizes preventative measures to keep families together. The conversation also touches on innovative programs that provide direct financial assistance to families and youth at risk of homelessness. Additionally, there is a focus on the work being done to address human trafficking, emphasizing the need for continuous investment and collaboration to tackle these critical issues.

Time Stamps:  

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode 

01:21 Meet Dr. Meg Sullivan 

01:25 Dr. Sullivan's Career Journey 

03:38 Challenges in Child Welfare 

05:49 Policy Changes and Their Impact 

06:46 Family First Prevention Act 

08:31 Addressing Neglect and Poverty 

12:52 Promising Practices and Innovations 

22:59 Human Trafficking Prevention 

27:45 Unfinished Business and Future Hopes 

35:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links:

Dr. Meg Sullivan, MD, MPH, is a former Acting Assistant Secretary for the Administration of Children and Families

Family First Prevention Services Act

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work Requirements

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