VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — When news broke of a Volusia County man accused of molesting at least two foster children placed in his care since the fall of 2020, many asked how he could have passed the checks that are in place to protect children.
Dr. John DeGarmo with The Foster Care Institute says the problem stems from how difficult it is for agencies to recruit parents, something that’s become more difficult during the pandemic.
READ: Volusia County man accused of molesting at least 2 foster children placed in his care
The Institute works with agencies on a daily basis to provide training resources and support.
“Unfortunately, agencies are overworked, overwhelmed, under-resourced, undersupported, understaffed.” DeGarmo said.
READ: Man accused of molesting foster children to appear in court Monday
DeGarmo says COVID-19, together with an overwhelmed foster care system, is making it difficult for agencies to recruit parents, let alone retain them.
“Will I be able to keep my job? Food on the table? My own COVID concerns? They’re now caring for children whose anxiety levels are through the roof,” he said.
VIDEO: Volusia County foster father accused of molesting children placed in his care
With a shortage of people willing to foster kids, the potential for the wrong people to slip through the cracks is much greater.
“Sometimes agencies might say, you know what, we are so desperate for a foster parent. This person has applied, he passed the background check, there are some red flags, we’ll pay attention to those red flags but we need to get this child placed.” DeGarmo said.
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