Saturday, March 8, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.
A large number of these cases did not have satisfactory results. Many times the people operating foster homes are not properly trained to handle behaviors that are a result of neglect, physical and mental abuse, and the children again end up being abused. In some instances medication designed to help the child adjust are not administered properly; to handle behavior the child is over-medicated. In one case the child received medication over a two-week period when the dosages were for 30 days.
The step from a home where there is neglect and abuse to a "normal" family situation is too great for the majority of these children. They need a "halfway" place to recuperate and adjust to a more normal lifestyle.
In some instances the foster parents have changed the child's given name which adds to their confusion, especially when they are rejected or pulled from these homes and returned to the state. Too many of these children are being bounced from foster home to foster home. They need the time for nurturing and adjustment which is provided by Southern Nevada Children's Home in Boulder City.
The number of places such as the Boulder City Home is not sufficient to care for the ever-increasing population in this state and the children needing help. To lose this resource would just add to the problem and it would be a crime.
Judy Monzo
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