Collins Appointed to Racial Disproportionality in Child Welfare Task Force

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –  Continuing her efforts to improve conditions for children in foster care, state Rep. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, was recently appointed to sit on the Racial Disproportionality in Child Welfare Task Force by Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch.

“Growing up in foster care since a young age, I know first-hand the challenges and struggles youth, especially youth of color, face on a daily basis growing up in the foster care system,” said Collins. “Improving the foster care system and ensuring children growing up in care have the resources to succeed in life is one of my biggest legislative priorities.”

The Racial Disproportionality in Child Welfare Task Force will examine the racial disparities of children and families involved in the child welfare system and the causes of such disparities. The task force will be made up of 22 members, ranging from General Assembly members, parents involved in the child welfare system, organizations involved in child welfare and representatives from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). The task force will explore resources, policies and practices that could help prevent entry into the child welfare system and reduce racial disproportionalities within the system.

“I would like to thank Speaker Welch for my appointment into this much-needed task force,” continued Collins. “I look forward to meeting and getting to work so we can help our families and children who need it the most.”