The state has made the difficult decision to close the West Virginia Children’s Home, a residential facility in Elkins that has served foster children for many years. This move comes at a time when the state is heavily reliant on group homes and lacks sufficient available beds. The 25-bed facility, which caters to youth aged 12 to 18 from all counties, is operated by the Department of Human Services. Due to behavioral issues, these youth cannot be placed in traditional foster homes.

Operational Details and School on Premises

The West Virginia Department of Education operates a school within the facility. As of now, there have been six to 10 students there for the past 12 to 18 months, and currently, three children reside at the facility. This educational setup provides a unique environment for the children's learning and development.

History and Safety Concerns

The West Virginia Children’s Home was built in 1909. Last year, Department Secretary Cynthia Persily informed lawmakers about numerous safety concerns involving windows and doors that needed immediate attention. These safety issues have been a long-standing concern and have contributed to the decision to close the facility.

Shortage of Foster Homes and Group Homes

More than half of West Virginia's 6,135 foster kids are currently in group homes, highlighting the shortage of foster homes, especially for older children. Lawmakers and advocates have expressed concern about children being housed in hotels due to the lack of foster families and available beds in group homes. This situation poses significant challenges for the well-being of these children.

Mistreatment Allegations and Legal Proceedings

In 2019, an ongoing class-action lawsuit was filed alleging the mistreatment of thousands of foster children in the care of the Department of Human Services. The suit pointed out that a disproportionate number of children were sent to institutions. In July, DoHS requested a summary judgment in the suit, claiming they had made improvements by recruiting more foster families. However, attorneys suing the state maintain that the problems persist and are preparing for a trial in March 2025.This closure of the West Virginia Children’s Home will have far-reaching effects on the foster care system in the state. It is crucial that alternative solutions are explored to ensure the well-being and proper care of these vulnerable children. The state must work towards building capacity in community support and finding suitable placements for the children.