Needs in an era of COVID-19:
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WHAT IS
a preliminary investigation of selfreported needs of families who experienced rapid return as a result of government mandates
Rapid Unprepared Return: During the COVID-19 pandemic, some governments chose to mandate the rapid and unprepared return of children in residential care to families. On average. they had about two weeks to prepare the children and families for reunification.
based on data from
in MEXICO, INDIA, KENYA, UGANDA,
131 FAMILIES
AND ETHIOPIA
BASIC NECESSITIES
such as housing, bedding, clothing, water, nutrition, and hygiene.
#1 most common response, from both kids and caregivers
SECURITY
through income, legal support, and community resources.
BIGGEST NEEDS of families experiencing rapid return:
RELATIONAL NEEDS
such as access to friends and family, therapy, parenting skills, and spiritual and moral support.
EDUCATION
including tuition, educational supplies, and technology for virtual learning.
RECOMMENDATIONS: Broaden your focus.
Ask families what they need.
Services should aim to support the well-being of the entire family, not just the child.
Children and families are expert guides to their own lives and resources, and can point toward the most effective services.
Don't overlook basic needs!
Crises may call for shortterm material support.
Emotional and social support is important, but will be less effective if basic needs are unmet.
While providing material resources (such as food) is often unsustainable long-term, it may be needed during emergencies.
Based on research by Nicole Gilbertson Wilke, Amanda Hiles Howard & Ian Forber Pratt.