Ohio Needs Emergency Funding for Child Welfare in the Next COVID-19 Relief Package
May 7, 2020
As Ohio organizations working to ensure the well-being of our children and families, we urge you to ensure Congress
sends funds to strengthen the state and local systems that prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect and that
address the needs of children, youth, and families already in the foster care system.
The impacts of COVID-19 are putting stress on families who are attempting to navigate new public health safety
protocols, school closures, uncertain childcare arrangements, job losses, social isolation, and significant barriers to
many critical support services. These kinds of stress increase the risk of child abuse and neglect at the same time
family supports and child welfare response are challenged by the public health crisis. Facing these challenges requires
a comprehensive approach that addresses the entire child welfare continuum. Read the full statement here.