Back in July, Governor Tom Wolf signed an executive order, directing state agencies to look at how the Commonwealth supports its vulnerable populations. That includes at-risk youth, those living in poverty, and the elderly. 

The Governor’s executive order created the Council on Reform, which has since made a list of recommendations to improve the way Pennsylvania protects its vulnerable populations.

“They have worked diligently over the last three months and delivered an extensive set of recommendations, the goal of ensuring that every human being is treated just like that- a human being,” Governor Wolf explains.

The Council on Reform’s recommendations centers on two main themes: empowering and supporting the workforce, and making sure vulnerable populations have access to the services they need. The executive order also created the Office of Advocacy and Reform, which will work to make sure these recommendations get put into place.

“I have seen all too often what happens to vulnerable people when our systems, programs, and interventions fail them. We can do better. We can make sure that trauma doesn’t become a life sentence for our children,” says Dan Jurman, Executive Director of the Office of Advocacy and Reform.

State agencies have also taken steps to protect vulnerable populations. The Departments of Health and Human Services are working to make access to services easier for the homeless. The Department of Aging is hosting trainings on Older Adult Protective Services. Programs are being developed to help at-risk youth avoid out-of-home placements.

“While providing services in the communities, we may be able to offer more concrete support in the homes, that way we could have a sure, direct impact on all those involved, no matter the age,” says Haundray Muir, a Council on Reform Member.

The recommendations and full report can be viewed below: