Oklahoma Department of Human Services Adoption and Parent Support Programs

Scope Description:

Examine the State’s adoption and parent support programs and related outcomes, to include the requirements for reunification of foster children with biological parents, adoption costs, and post-placement services. Examine DHS’ role in identifying funding sources and compare the cost of an adoption through the State to private adoption costs. Examine childcare assistance options available to guardians.

Evaluation Objectives:

This evaluation will be guided by three key objectives within the scope set forth by the Legislative Oversight Committee: 

1. Examine the sources of funding and key expenditures of DHS’ child welfare programs.
2. Identify the available assistance to families at risk of entering the child welfare system, including the support provided to child guardians.
3. Examine the criteria for reunification of foster children with biological parents.
4. Describe the differences in processes, barriers, and costs for public and private adoption.
5. Examine DHS post-adoption support programs to adoptive parents and guardians.