Social Services
A nonprofit’s abrupt closure puts access to public benefits at risk
The Benefits Data Trust said it would close after a ‘careful review’ of its operations and finances. The closure leaves in question the status of its work with numerous state governments.
13 states with Republican governors opt out of summer food program for kids
They cite opposition to ‘welfare’ and administrative costs in declining to participate in Summer EBT.
The 'silver tsunami' is here. Is government ready?
About 10,000 Americans are turning 65 every day. As the nation’s aging population continues to climb, states and the federal government are working to get plans in place to care for older adults.
Utah Gov. Cox to homeless providers: Produce results, or you could lose funding
Policymakers need to focus more on accountability—while also not forgetting compassion, the governor said.
This Montana school solved its teacher shortage by opening a day care
On-site day cares are being used as a recruitment tool. Turns out, they help more than just the teachers.
Can cash payments reduce childhood poverty?
Money may not be able to buy happiness, but observers say it could help protect some of the nation’s most vulnerable: children living in poverty.
A new tool aims to help communities spend their opioid settlement money wisely
The dashboard helps local governments estimate how much money to expect and, based on that, offers evidence-based recommendations on how best to spend it.
City directs a cut of opioid settlement funds to grieving families
This summer, some families in Boston could start receiving payments to cover funeral expenses and legal services.
States shift toward kin-first foster care
Kinship caregivers and advocates have long expressed frustration at unequal support for raising their own.
From foster care to secure housing: How vouchers help young adults build self-sufficiency
While some first-time renters rush to thrift stores to find eclectic pieces to decorate their new apartments, for adolescents leaving the foster system, the experience of moving out is often much bleaker.
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State Medicaid costs poised to surge from pandemic lows
State costs rose by 13% in fiscal 2023 and are expected to increase by an additional 17.2% in fiscal 2024 thanks to the phaseout of enhanced federal aid, provider rate increases and slowing but still elevated enrollment levels.
San Francisco tries tough love by tying welfare to drug rehab
Starting in January 2025, public assistance recipients who screen positive for addiction on a 10-question drug abuse test will be referred to treatment. Those who refuse or fail to show up for treatment will lose their benefits.
First state-regulated overdose prevention center preps for opening
Rhode Island is using part of its opioid settlement money to expand harm reduction strategies and demonstrate how the center can impact drug use, crime and recovery.
State looks to expand food assistance program to restaurants
Nevada's Restaurant Meals Program would allow people 60 or older, those who are disabled and people experiencing homelessness enrolled in SNAP to buy meals at participating restaurants.
In Georgia, inadequate housing can mean significantly longer stays in foster care
Even after resolving other safety concerns, parents can wait for months to be reunited with their children, often because of what advocates say are stringent requirements sought by the state’s Division of Family and Children Services.
Some low-wage earners must choose between pay raises and government assistance
Lawmakers in North Carolina heard from experts about the “benefits cliff” and how other jurisdictions are developing strategies to lessen its impact on low-income families.
States turn to Medicaid to tackle housing insecurity
Section 1115 Medicaid waivers can help states reduce health inequities by covering housing costs and providing meal support for vulnerable populations.
Biden proposes 'historic new program' to address child care shortages
In his budget, the president is asking Congress for more money for child care and the restoration of several pandemic-era programs, including the full child care tax expansion.
House passes spending bills in bipartisan vote
The package of bills provides additional funding for WIC and rental assistance, but drastically cuts funds funds for the largest state and local housing grant program and transit.
White House beefs up child care block grants
A new rule caps the total amount low-income families have to pay for child care at 7% of their income and directs states to pay child care providers more fairly and on time.
