Target 8 investigations have raised awareness on a number of previous occasions when it comes to Michigan’s babies and CPS issues. In fact, we’ve shared some of their discoveries with you in the past. They are often heartbreaking topics, and reveal some of the ways in which our state struggles to meet the needs of families and children around Michigan. This most recent story, however, is a great one and we are thrilled to share it with you!
This story actually ties back to our previous Target 8-inspired article, about the involvement of CPS workers in the lives of babies born addicted to drugs. Joann Hoganson, director of the Community Wellness Division at the Kent County Health Department, saw the same episode we did, and was convinced that there was something she could do to help. Something that would help save the lives of babies, and help struggling moms to get the resources they need.
As director, Hoganson commands a staff of over 30 nurses and social workers. People whose skills and training are perfectly suited to step into this crisis and provide help. And unlike CPS, they don’t arrive with the expectation (or even ability) to tear families apart or take kids away from their parents. Instead, their focus would be on getting the family the help they need in order to survive and thrive together.
According to WoodTV, Hoganson reached out to CPS and offered to help. “Following the report, I made some phone calls to CPS the very next morning and said, ‘Look, I think I have another alternative for us.” What was her solution? Simple. “What our nurses and social workers can do is they can evaluate for the safety (of the infants) and connect the mom to the resources she needs if she’s ready to let go of her substance abuse,”
As of now, when a baby is born with drugs in it’s system in Kent County, the hospital alerts CPS and they open an investigation. But once they’ve conducted a standardized risk assessment test to determine if the baby is in immediate danger, they often close the case. Why? Because unless CPS sees something that they believe puts that baby’s life or wellbeing at risk, they don’t pursue the situation further. The results are that numerous babies die while their mother struggle to get a handle on their addictions.
“The beauty of having our nurses and social workers go in is we have Medicaid funds to go in nine times during the first year as opposed to one visit (from CPS), so it’s a much more holistic approach. Rather than going in just to address safety, they’ll also address everything from nutrition to breast feeding, to well-baby checks, to the safe sleep environment, to safety with things like car seats.” Hoganson explained.
This way the parents are supported during the often difficult early days of parenting. For parents who are young, inexperienced, or struggling with postpartum-depression or substance abuse, this can be a lifesaver! Both for the babies and for the mothers and fathers! Join us next time, as we look at how this plan will be implemented in the future, and how this change in approach for Kent county families can mean more lives saved, and more families kept together!
Until then, if CPS has accused you of abusing or neglecting a child, or used your baby’s well being as an excuse to invade your private life and threaten to take away your children, call The Kronzek Firm immediately at 866 766 5245. Our skilled CPS defense attorneys can help protect your family and defend you against trumped up charges and false allegations. We are here to help you fight for your future!