Little Rock, Arkansas – The State of Arkansas and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, have taken a significant step to advance child welfare across the state by signing a Joint Proclamation aimed at strengthening outcomes for children, youth, and families. The proclamation, officially signed on March 16, 2026, affirms a shared commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration in child welfare services.
Arkansas Governor Sanders, in partnership with ACF leaders, emphasized the importance of building on recent successes while continuing to innovate and refine programs that support families and protect children. The initiative aligns with the broader federal vision outlined in the Fostering the Future executive order signed by former President Donald J. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, which prioritizes prevention, stability, and long-term positive outcomes for children across the nation.
Under the principles of this executive order, unnecessary administrative burdens are reduced, reporting requirements streamlined, and federal processes better aligned to empower child welfare agencies. This framework allows frontline professionals to dedicate more time, resources, and expertise directly to serving children and families rather than being consumed by paperwork or administrative hurdles. By removing these obstacles, the partnership aims to make state-led solutions more effective and responsive to local community needs.
The Joint Proclamation highlights the progress Arkansas has made in recent years in child welfare. Notable improvements include enhanced safety practices, stronger family engagement, expanded prevention services, and better permanency outcomes for children. The state’s commitment to continuous quality improvement has been a driving factor in these achievements, demonstrating that focused strategies, data-driven approaches, and collaboration can produce measurable results for families.
“Strengthening child safety, permanency, and well-being outcomes remains our top priority,” the proclamation states. The document further underscores the importance of promoting innovation and cross-system collaboration to ensure children have every opportunity to grow up in safe, stable, and loving homes. The shared vision is summed up in the phrase – “A Home for Every Child” – reflecting a steadfast commitment to ensuring no child is left without the security and support of a nurturing environment.
Federalism principles also guide the proclamation, recognizing that states are the primary drivers of child welfare policy and practice. Arkansas and ACF officials agreed that lasting system change is achieved when federal partnership supports, empowers, and removes barriers for states while respecting local priorities and strengths. Transparency, accountability, and shared learning are central to this approach, allowing innovative programs to flourish and adapt to emerging challenges.
By entering into a new Program Improvement Plan (PIP), Arkansas and ACF are formalizing their intent to continue this collaborative work. The plan aims to build upon the progress achieved while embracing bold, thoughtful innovation in child welfare services. Officials noted that collaboration, combined with data-informed decision-making, is essential to maintaining momentum and achieving long-term positive outcomes for children and families.
The signing ceremony marks a pivotal moment for child welfare in Arkansas, signaling a renewed commitment to working together to protect children, support families, and strengthen communities. By fostering partnerships, reducing administrative barriers, and encouraging innovative solutions, the state and federal partners hope to create a model of child welfare excellence that ensures every child has a chance to thrive.
As Arkansas moves forward with this initiative, stakeholders expressed optimism that continued collaboration and shared vision will help create a sustainable child welfare system capable of adapting to future challenges while keeping children’s safety and well-being at the center of every decision.
