Oklahoma – Oklahoma Human Services has seen a steady decline in the number of children entering its Child Welfare System over the past decade. This change is largely attributed to increased collaboration with community partners and other state agencies, alongside a focus on preventative, in-home services designed to help families stay intact when possible while still making progress toward ensuring child safety.
“Over the last several years, our agency has continued to develop partnerships within the community to come together and support families in meeting their individual needs and preventing the removal of children from their homes. Some of these partners include the 111 Project, Care Portal, Safe Families, Youth Villages, and NorthCare, all of which create a strong network of support that’s both proactive and family-centered,” said Maghan Ruark, Oklahoma Human Services Child Welfare Programs Administrator.
NorthCare, a valued partner of Oklahoma Human Services, provided prevention-focused services to 1,083 families in 2024.
Currently, approximately 5,738 children are in state custody, representing a 49 percent decrease since October 2014. Despite this improvement, Oklahoma Human Services continues to face a foster home shortage, with more than 500 homes needed across the state.
The decline in child entries into the welfare system demonstrates the positive impact of these efforts, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges that still need to be addressed. Oklahoma Human Services continues to prioritize collaboration with community organizations to provide preventative services aimed at reducing the need for state intervention.
