To the editor:

I saw a Facebook post and heard about the Department for Children and Families audit on the news. I’d like to ask anyone who sees it to not to make assumptions. I’m not about to condone any mistreatment experienced, but I’d ask you to look at the whole picture.

Organizations that are funded through the state of Kansas have been dealing with significant budget cuts. The failings of DCF probably go further and are more about the failings of Kansas. DCF might be dealing with employees who experience low wages and worsening morale as programs meant to help Kansas’ vulnerable population, such as the Health Home project and mental health supports, are slashed. In recent years/months it has become increasingly difficult to keep quality employees in Kansas due to worsening conditions. Before insisting DCF make improvements, we Kansans need to take responsibility and make sure DCF even has the funding to make improvements.

I know I wouldn’t have my job as a social worker for the severely mentally ill if my predecessor hadn’t said “forget it” and moved to Colorado after two years; and she replaced a woman who also said “forget it” and moved to Oregon. I’m happy to be back home in the Midwest, but I struggle with my choice to be in Kansas trying to help those in need on a daily basis.