Marcie Wuitschick, Chief Human Resources Officer | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Marcie Wuitschick, Chief Human Resources Officer | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
June is recognized as National Family Unification Month, focusing on the role of communities in maintaining family unity. This year's theme, "Communities Supporting Family Unification," underscores the support families receive from their communities, including relatives, teachers, coaches, friends, and neighbors.
In North Dakota, these connections are vital for family well-being. The observance has evolved to highlight that family unification extends beyond a case outcome or permanency goal; it is an ongoing journey and a shared responsibility to support and protect families.
Since June 2020, North Dakota has seen a decline in children entering foster care and a nearly 22% reduction in facility placements. This trend reflects efforts by North Dakota Health and Human Services to keep families safely together when possible.
Key factors contributing to this progress include the expansion of family-focused services at no cost. These services aim to strengthen families before situations escalate. Funding supports kinship caregivers so children can stay with familiar individuals whenever feasible. Additionally, shelter care is used strategically to develop safety plans with families.
The month highlights programs across North Dakota that prioritize keeping children with their families when safe. If separation occurs, the focus remains on placing children with known individuals in the least intrusive manner.
Programs supporting family unification include Kinship ND, FamilyFirst Services (Title IV-E Prevention Program), shelter care and respite services, Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Family Preservation Program, foster care licensing, child protective services, and case management services.
For more details on family unification efforts in North Dakota, visit cfshhs.nd.gov/cfs.
___
Alerts Sign-up