Ms. McClellan highlighted longstanding, systemic failures that continue to place children at risk. The testimony called for greater accountability and transparency around unsafe hotline screen outs, flawed investigations, and the unlawful use of “informal” placements with relatives that deny families critical legal protections and supports.

The testimony highlighted how burdensome documentation requirements, outdated and inaccurate public information, and system barriers delay access to critical financial support for kinship caregivers.

Ms. McClellan stated that DC KinCare Alliance applauds the extension of the Grandparent Caregiver Program (GCP) and Close Relative Caregiver Program (CRCP) subsidies to those raising children up to age 21, rather than losing that support when the child reaches 18 years of age. We appreciate the clarity of a fixed subsidy amount over the uncertainty of a range that is calculated based on factors that are not entirely transparent.

We believe, however, that the Bill as drafted would be more expensive and less effective than it could be if the responsibilities of the proposed District Office for Children were placed within the Office of the Ombudsperson for Children (OFC).

DC KinCare Alliance recommend that the Bill be expanded to expressly require CFSA to allow anyone it interviews or meets with to have a trusted person present for advice and support, including legal counsel.

Ms. McClellan discussed DC KinCare Alliance’s serious concerns regarding some of the proposed changes to the statutory definition of “neglected child.”

We’re proud to share that the D.C. Council officially declared September 2025 as Kinship Care Month, thanks to a ceremonial resolution introduced by Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker, who chairs the Committee on Youth Affairs.

We are requesting that the D.C. Council fully fund the D.C. Access to Justice Initiative so families like ours can get help from lawyers to obtain the services and supports we need to raise the children in our care and give them a brighter future.

Ms. Fuller testified in support of the D.C. Access to Justice Initiative.

Ms. Spindel testified in support of the D.C. Access to Justice Initiative.

Ms. McClellan called for more transparency in the subsidy formula and amounts.

Ms. Spindel testified about the Department of Human Services FY 2026 Budget and the proposal for an Ombudsperson for Public Benefits.