Kansas
In Kansas, Saint Francis Ministries continues to actively engage in advocacy efforts surrounding the upcoming elections and anticipated changes in state leadership, including the transition in the governor’s office and subsequent changes in agency leadership. Through our involvement with the Children’s Alliance and direct engagement with candidates and policymakers, we have strengthened relationships, helped inform future child welfare priorities, and aligned our legislative efforts with those of our community partners. Kansas President Holly Osborne has also continued to represent Saint Francis before the Joint Committee on Child Welfare System Oversight, providing testimony this quarter following a previous closed-session discussion that allowed legislators to examine complex case-specific challenges in greater detail.
Texas
In Texas, we remain focused on strengthening the implementation of Community-Based Care (CBC), monitoring progress on Texas Child-Centered Care (T3C) rate modernization, and working with state and community partners to address challenges and opportunities across the child welfare system. Through ongoing engagement with the Department of Family and Protective Services, other SSCC organizations, and statewide advocacy partners, we continue to identify opportunities to strengthen service delivery, support sustainable system improvements, and advance positive outcomes for children and families.
National Advocacy
At the national level, Saint Francis Ministries continues to engage in efforts to help shape federal child welfare policy and priorities. We are participating in a national workgroup associated with the National Center for Community-Based Care, collaborating with child welfare leaders from across the country to identify shared priorities and opportunities for federal advocacy. This work provides an important opportunity to elevate the experiences of community-based providers and help inform policy and funding discussions that support stronger, more effective child welfare systems nationwide.
