Oregon Public Broadcasting

Nearly 9 in 10 Washington State foster kids say the system treats them “somewhat or very well.”

That’s a key finding in a first-of-its-kind survey of foster children in the state. But the news is not all good.

Bryn Martyna represents foster kids in a class action lawsuit against the state. She says some of the survey findings are concerning.

Bryn Martyna: “You know less than half of the youth were very satisfied with the quality of support provided by their casework. I think that’s disappointing and I hope that the department looks closely at the answers that the youth gave and what they can do to be more responsive.”

The Department of Social and Health Services says it will use the survey results to assess its services. One area of focus may be helping kids transition out of foster care when they turn eighteen.

Because of the class action lawsuit, the state has committed to monthly visits from caseworkers and more visits for separated siblings.

On average some 1700 youth are in foster care on a daily basis in Washington State.