Maryland Speeds Kids Into Family Homes

Maryland just revolutionized kinship care by slashing the time it takes to place kids with family or friends from four months to just five days—making stability faster, safer, and more permanent. With new laws in place since 2024, guardians like Carlisa Smith, who’s been a beloved “mom” to kids in her community—including her autistic great nephew KJ—can now step in quicker, giving children the security they desperately need. Child welfare experts like Christine Abbatiello say the old system could take a year or more; now, guardianship is targeted for under a year. And it’s not just Maryland—Delaware’s Steve and Tami Phillips, who’ve cared for their great-great nieces since 2025, echo the same mission: building a foundation of safety and love. This isn’t just policy change—it’s about families stepping up to give kids the permanent home they deserve. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ce7687cd1e618b02