WV DoHS to hold engagement sessions to help improve child welfare system
CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — The West Virginia Department of Human Services announced a comprehensive statewide engagement tour and Advisory Committee aimed at bolstering the child welfare system.
According to a press release, the initiative is set to begin in mid-May and represents a partnership to encourage open dialogue between the Department and stakeholders throughout West Virginia.
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The Department is collaborating with a team that focuses on coordinating and managing projects within the state. The department remains committed to a methodical and inclusive approach. The strategy is meant to gain insights from various portions of the community, including foster parents, providers, legislators, judiciary members, and others involved in the child welfare system.
Engagement opportunities include:
Stakeholder Sessions: In-person sessions at locations throughout West Virginia, such as Charleston, Huntington, Parkersburg, Wheeling, Morgantown, Martinsburg, Clarksburg, Elkins, and Beckley.
Judiciary-Specific Listening Sessions: Tailored sessions will engage members of the judiciary to explore the unique challenges and insights from a legal perspective on child welfare.
Targeted Focus Groups: Done either virtually or in-person, these focus groups will involve critical populations such as state legislators, foster parents, and members of the judicial branch. The aim of the groups is to get a deeper understanding of the specific issues and suggestions from these important stakeholders.
Upon the events' completion, the Department will analyze the feedback and compile a thorough report. In it, the report will detail key findings and give recommendations for increasing the effectiveness and response of the child welfare system. The Department will create an Advisory Committee, made up of department leadership, judiciary and legislative representatives, providers, and facilitators, to provide input regarding the action plan to be put in place.
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The effort highlights the Department's dedication to promoting inclusive engagement, transparency, and improving the welfare system in the Mountain State. By seeking and using input from stakeholders throughout West Virginia, the Department hopes to make meaningful progress toward bettering the care and support to vulnerable children and their families.
For more information regarding the Department of Human Services, visit their website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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