We were honored today to have Gov. Brad Little join us at the Department of Health and Welfare to mark a major milestone for Idaho’s children and families: signing of a child welfare budget that adds $23.2 million in new funding and 63 additional staff to build capacity where it’s needed.

As the governor pointed out, this historic investment is the largest of its kind in state history, and it reflects our shared belief that every Idaho child deserves a safe, stable, and loving home.

Last June the governor issued the Promoting Families and Protecting Children executive order and set a vision for how we care for vulnerable children and support the families who raise them. Since then, we’ve worked to translate that vision into action—reducing barriers for foster parents, increasing the number of available foster homes, and expanding partnerships with community organizations across Idaho.

This new budget strengthens that momentum, adding:

• Prevention specialists who can work with families early—before a crisis escalates.
• More clinical staff to provide timely, compassionate care for children in the system.
• Greater support for kinship placements and treatment foster homes, so children can remain in family-like settings even in difficult circumstances.
• Expanded efforts to bring Idaho kids currently placed out of state back home.

This investment isn’t just about systems and services. It’s about making good on Idaho’s promise to children—that we will listen, protect, and support them. And it’s about recognizing the incredible work of foster parents, child welfare professionals, community partners, and everyday Idahoans who open their hearts and homes to children in need.

We know the work isn’t finished, but with this budget, we’re turning the page. We’re investing in solutions that prioritize stability, healing, and long-term well-being—solutions that reflect the Idaho way: community-driven, family-centered, and focused on what’s best for kids.

To everyone who helped get us here—Gov. Little, the Legislature, foster families, community partners, social workers, all of DHW’s divisions and staff—thank you. Let’s keep going.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.