MEDIA RELEASE from Hawaii DHS

The Department of Human Services (DHS) will reduce its Child Welfare Services (CWS) contracts with community providers and the University of Hawaii by $5.8 million beginning Dec. 1, 2011.

Services impacted by the reductions include family strengthening and support services, emergency shelter care, Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children, recruitment, training, and home studies for prospective resource family homes, Ohana Conferencing and training for CWS staff.

CWS reviewed all of its existing services and service contracts before making any decisions regarding reductions. In that process, CWS examined contract expenditures and utilization over the past two years and duplicate services. Some providers, whose services are not being eliminated, may experience a cutback in funds.

“The decision to reduce funding and terminate some of our CWS programs was not easy,” DHS Director Patricia McManaman said. “Although the economy is improving, state revenue is still lagging. McManaman emphasized that, “essential services will not be jeopardized, nor will Hawaii’s children and families be exposed to harm.”

DHS will continue to fulfill its mission, in partnership with families and the community, to ensure the safety, permanency and well-being of children and families experiencing child abuse and neglect or who are at high risk.

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SA: DHS trims $5.8M in services

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