The COVID-19 pandemic has affected children’s and families’ social, emotional, and mental wellbeing, and demand for social services has increased due to COVID-19-related and economic factors.

Programs that place foster children, prevent domestic violence, and provide temporary assistance to families experiencing job loss – among other human services programs – are as important now as they have ever been.

However, these services may have shifted from in-person visits to digital operations, eligibility requirements may have shifted, and states may soon be facing budget cuts affecting the delivery of safety net programs.

The speakers on this episode explain how states can build relationships with the human and social services sector and ensure that children and families can access critical social supports during and after this period of increased need.

This episode also leverages new resources and flexibilities created during the COVID-19 response to rebuild systems to be community-centered, prevention-focused, and equitable.

Speakers:

• Elke Shaw-Tulloch, MHS, Public Health Administrator, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare
• Suzy Sonnier, Vice President Strategy and Development, ‎UnitedHealthcare

Resources:

• Building a More Equitable Economy Post-Pandemic (ASTHO)
• COVID-19 Parental Resources Kit (CDC)
• COVID-19 Makes Funding For Health And Social Services Integration Even More Crucial (Health Affairs)
• Flattening The Next COVID-19 Curve – Our Essential Resources (Health Leads)