Rebekah Gewirtz

The Boston Globe recently reported on unsafe conditions found in 27 of 30 group homes for foster children in Massachusetts. Inspectors found moldy mattresses, mildew in showers, dirty toilets and other issues.

The National Association of Social Workers Massachusetts Chapter sent a letter to the Globe said more must be done to help families before children are taken from homes and put in such group homes.

For instance, the chapter recommended in-home services such as the Children’s Behavioral Health Initiative.

“Evidence confirms that these behavioral supports for families can reduce incidents of abuse and keep families together, while teaching valuable life skills,” Chapter Executive Director Rebekah Gewirtz wrote.

You can read the chapter’s full response online.

Social workers help people overcome life’s challenges and improve their well-being. To learn more visit NASW’s HelpStartsHere.org website.