Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson says he wants the state to continue working with faith leaders about ways to address a shortage in foster homes and needs for re-entry programs for prisoners after a two-day summit focused on the topics.
The Republican governor wrapped up a two-day summit Wednesday aimed at increasing church involvement in foster care and prison needs. Hutchinson said he wants the steering group of religious leaders he formed to organize the event to continue discussions on the topics, including combating drug abuse in the state.
The head of the state Division of Children and Family Services earlier Wednesday urged summit participants to help Arkansas expand the number of homes available for foster children. The state has more than 4,300 foster children, but only 2,940 beds available.
