TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Governor Laura Kelly announced Monday that Kansas has been selected for the National Governors Association’s Child and Family Welfare Support Program.

The network of eight states connects the offices of governors, child welfare officers, state human services and education officials, and nonprofit partners to jointly develop strategies to improve and support the wellbeing of children and families.

“The pandemic has affected all Kansans – including our most vulnerable children and families,” said Governor Kelly. “I’m excited to be part of this outstanding program so that Kansas can become a leading state in building a stronger safety net and ensuring that all families have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The network also includes Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, New York, Virginia, and West Virginia. It was launched by the National Association Center for Best Practices and Casey Family Programs to address cases of child abuse or neglect that were not reported during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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