As West Virginia’s foster care system struggles to hire and retain workers amid low pay and overwhelming caseloads, it stresses foster families and keeps kids from getting the attention they need.
Children & Families
A decade after a federal investigation found West Virginia unnecessarily institutionalizes foster kids, our investigation has found the state’s most vulnerable kids are still being left behind.
Spotlight PA investigative reporter Ed Mahon partnered with WESA, Pittsburgh's NPR station, to produce an audio version of his child welfare coverage.
Alaska’s rural schools, especially in Indigenous communities, face severe neglect.
New Mexico's child welfare system struggles with deep-rooted issues, stalled reforms and overwhelmed agencies.
Many grieving children lack support, risking mental health and academic struggles. Efforts are growing to expand grief resources and connect kids to care.
The Kevin S. lawsuit settlement aimed to reform New Mexico’s foster care system, but progress has stalled. An arbitrator ruled the state failed to meet commitments, leading to new deadlines for reform.
New Mexico’s child welfare agency struggles with staffing, foster placements, and care quality. Lawsuits highlight systemic failures, and a report warns children in state custody face “irreparable harm.”
One county’s plan to use the money to address staffing turnover has sparked debate over whether it aligns with the requirements of settlements with drug companies.
Health care sharing ministries advertise reimbursements for members’ medical bills. But they are largely unregulated, and most have restrictions on maternity coverage.