Supports and Services for Expectant and Parenting Youth in Foster Care - New Jersey

Youth's Parental Rights
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20    

The Division of Child Protection and Permanency in the Department of Children and Families shall not limit a minor's legal right to make decisions regarding the care, custody, and supervision of her child.

Placement Options
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20

If a minor is placed in a resource family home, group home, or institution and is pregnant, becomes pregnant, or gives birth to a child while in the placement, the division shall provide or arrange for the provision of services to ensure that the minor and her child remain together as a family unit.

If, because of the minor's pregnancy or birth of her child, the minor's current placement is no longer available, is inappropriate, or could result in harm to the minor or her child, the caseworker shall locate and place the minor and her child together in a substitute living arrangement.

Health Services 
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20

The plan shall address, but shall not be limited to, the following areas:

• Information about and referral to physicians, certified nurse midwives, and other health-care professionals providing prenatal care
• Medical care, including hospital, maternity, postnatal, and preventive pediatric services

Parent Preparation for Expectant Youth

This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.

Education and Services to Support Parenting Youth
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20

The plan shall address, but shall not be limited to, counseling and advocacy services.

The issue of assisting parenting youth in finishing high school is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed. For information on assisting youth in foster care complete high school, see Educational Supports for Youth in Foster Care - New Jersey | Child Welfare Information Gateway.

Economic and Concrete Supports 
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20

The plan shall address, but shall not be limited to, maintenance services, including clothing, food, housing, and financial assistance.

Services and Supports for Parenting Youth That Promote Self-Sufficiency

This issue is not addressed in the laws and policies reviewed.

Foster Care Prevention Strategy for any Child Born to the Youth
Citation: Ann. Stat. § 30:4C-26.20

A division caseworker shall develop and implement a permanency plan for the minor and her child that will enable the minor to provide a safe and stable home for her child.