Broward's system is unique: It is completely privatized, with the state contracting out the services related to group homes and foster care to a single nonprofit,
In response to New Times' questions and the concerns outlined in the piece,
ChildNet and it's contracted provider agencies are committed to keeping children in care safe. It is equally important that we have and maintain a variety of placement options available for children and adolescents in care to provide for their diverse needs.
Children in group homes are there to learn independent living skills and experience normalcy. All children and adolescents are monitored and carefully supervised but residential care facilities are not a juvenile detention facility and these children are not under lock and key.
Working together, ChildNet, our provider agencies, DCF and Broward Sherriffs Office, are all committed to ensuring we are rescuing and restoring child and adolescents who are victims of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation. It is our priority to raise awareness and build community capacity to treat and heal victims and prevent instances of trafficking in the future.
As part of an ongoing commitment by all partners to have a dialogue, share best practices and examine group and residential care, the group care workgroup was convened jointly with DCF to assess the current policies and collaborate on any changes or enhanced measures we need to be taking moving forward to protect all children in our care.
While we are prohibited by law from discussing any particular case, client, or incident, it’s important to know that we are taking the time to reassess the residential model and determine the best path forward to provide a safe environment while serving the intensive treatment needed for these children and adolescents.