Sacramento, CA – The County Welfare Directors Association (CWDA) of California released the following statement from Executive Director Cathy Senderling-McDonald today: 

“California’s social safety net continues to be a lifeline for millions as they navigate the ongoing pandemic, inflation and record-high gas prices; we are also mindful these burdens are shouldered disproportionately by communities of color and compounded by the enduring harms of racism and exclusion. We applaud Gov. Gavin Newsom and his administration for proposing a number of investments in programs to help the most vulnerable among us, including children who are survivors of commercial sexual exploitation.                                                                                                                             

“We’re encouraged to see $200 million in proposed General Fund increases for counties to recruit, approve and retain caregivers for children in foster care. Making sure these funds can be quickly brought to bear statewide to meet our urgent, known needs is critical. We look forward to working with the governor and legislature to further strengthen these proposals to ensure our state’s most vulnerable children are receiving the care and support they need and that the caregivers who step up to give them a home are supported without delay. 

“While the May Budget Revision lays out a good foundation for the work ahead, we do see opportunities to do more. As California takes in a record surplus, it’s important to keep in mind the extraordinarily high number of families in need of assistance from the state. To keep up with demand, counties need increased investments in order to administer crucial programs, like CalFRESH and CalWORKS, which are vital for those who depend on them.

“As the budget process continues, we will continue to work with the legislature and the administration to ensure all Californians are able to live, work and thrive in our amazing state.”