CAPTA does not really have an “alternative” program. The services provided by CAPTA are not duplicated, but there are programs that have been implemented because of CAPTA. The Adoption and Safe Families Act, or ASFA, clarifies that the health and safety of children served by child welfare agencies must be their paramount concern and aims to move children in foster care more quickly into permanent homes. The Chafee Foster Care Independence Program, or CFCIP, aims to assist youth aging out of foster care in the United States in obtaining and maintaining independent living skills. Services are provided to youth 14-21 who are in care. The main emphasis of CFCIP is education, budgeting and money management and career /job skills, although many other topics are covered. CFCIP was funded because it has been proven that most youth who age out of care struggle with the transition into adulthood …show more content…
The Social Work Policy Institute has a comprehensive section on adoption that gives the results of many studies done between 1996-2006, which all conclude overall that not having a permanent placement is likely to cause the child to have a negative outcome (2010). This would lead one to believe that these programs are scientifically sound. The CFCIP is using the National Youth In Transition Database, NYTD, to gather data about youth in care. They survey youth at ages 17, 19 and 21. Currently there is not a report available to prove or disprove the soundness of the program as the NYTD program has not been in effect long enough.
The ASFA, MEPA and CFCIP have evolved since their conception. Changes to the programs have kept the programs relevant. Each of these programs have been renewed and seem to be doing a good job of making changes that are needed to the adoption and foster care programs. CAPTA ensures the wellbeing of children and these programs continue to protect the