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State investment expands access to inpatient mental health treatment for Idaho youth
With the snip of oversized scissors and an outpouring of community support, a ribbon fell in late November at Idaho’s newest psychiatric residential treatment facility. The opening of Headwaters Behavioral Health Center in Idaho Falls marked more than a ceremonial milestone; it represented the realization of a multi-year effort to bring intensive mental health care for children and
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When a child enters foster care, the difference between hope and hardship often comes down to one thing: whether a foster family is available to provide a safe and
For Matthew and his wife, fostering isn’t just something they do—it’s a calling. Guided by their faith, the couple has opened their home to more than 35 children since
The new foster parent handbook, A Guide to Fostering in Idaho: Nurturing Kids, Building Families, was recently mailed to Idaho foster families. Designed for both
For children in foster care, the effects of instability, stress, and trauma can be overwhelming. Fly fishing is emerging as a therapeutic tool, offering kids a chance
When a child is removed from their home for their own safety and placed with foster parents, everything they’ve known is disrupted. They have new rooms, live with new
Idaho Gov. Brad Little kicked off the 2025 Legislative Session on Monday, Jan. 6, addressing lawmakers in a State of the State address and making a budget
Foster parents in Idaho are experiencing a growing sense of support, according to the 2024 Idaho Resource Parent Survey.This annual survey, which has been measuring
This December, I had the honor of signing adoptions for 30 Idaho kids, ensuring that they’re receiving the gift of safe, permanent, loving families for the holidays.
When a teenage boy had nowhere else to turn, he turned to his friends, hoping one of their families might take him in. One family did, opening their home and hearts to
Since starting my job as director of the Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) in June, I’ve signed 95 adoption papers for children being adopted from foster care into new families and waived adoption fees to help make adoption through the department easier.Signing adoptions is
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) has introduced a new Continuum of Care Bureau to enhance support for youth and families in the state’s foster care system. Its goal is to ensure that congregate care placements are appropriate while optimizing the use of funding