Oregon's foster care system for children needs a lot of work, there's general agreement on that. A lawsuit against the state revealed issues caused by shortages of parents and caseworkers, like children being kept in motels instead of private homes.
An audit by the secretary of state revealed these and other issues. So what will it take to patch the holes, and can enough foster parents be found to ensure that all children entering care are welcomed into safe environments?
We explore the issue with Desta Walsh of the Department of Human Services, Deborah Scholom from the Jackson County Foster Parent Association, who sits on a statewide board of foster parents, and with Mike Nores of Douglas Cares. We discuss problems and possible solutions.