The new year can often bring plenty of reflection, planning, and opportunity at state and local levels. As we work together through the ongoing pandemic, implementing change and improving best practices are always top of mind. Here’s a high-level synopsis of recent stories Ohio CASA found interesting:

• After three years of eligibility, Governor DeWine signs Executive Order to mandate kinship provider support. Prior to the order, the financial support responsibility was handled at the county level. The organization Children’s Rights, and other leaders in the community continue to push for an increase in the stipend, as it is not equal to the support foster parents receive.

• The Fostering Stable Housing Opportunities (FSHO) Act has officially passed! Representative Mike Turner, along with our friends at OHIO YAB and ACTION Ohio celebrated last week with a press conference. This federal voucher means that foster care alumni who have recently aged out will have more financial support and stability. They will also be less likely to experience houselessness. It’s an honor to partner with Cloé Cooper, Jonathan Thomas, Jamole Callahan, Lisa Dickson, Doris Edelmann, Michael Outrich, Ruth Anne White, and Danielle Bastarache as they diligently fight for youth in Ohio, and across the country.

• Introducing OhioKAN, a new resource for families made possible by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). OhioKAN is a new statewide program designed to help kinship and adoptive families navigate and connect with all available resources, locally and statewide.

• Ohio CASA is growing! In addition to Logan County rejoining the CASA roster, Judge Jay Nixon of Knox County is working hard to expand CASA support in the county. Special thanks to Ashland Parenting Plus CASA in Ashland County for assisting in this growth. 

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