Are local group homes cashing in on desperation—or just being unfairly scapegoated?
That’s the central question in a heated public dispute between the Self Reliance Group Home administrator and Scioto County officials, after reports revealed the county is shelling out up to $500 per day for each child in group home care.
County Commissioner Bryan Davis called the arrangement “extortion,” alleging that facilities jacked up their prices when they saw the county was desperate for placements. JFS Director Tammy Moore Morton echoed the concern, saying the county was told wealthier regions paid more—and that Scioto had to match or lose spots for local kids.
But the group home administrator says those claims are flat-out wrong.
“The daily rate is determined by the State of Ohio using strict financial audits and CPA-reviewed documents,” the administrator explained. “This isn’t some backroom deal. It’s a statewide standard.”
They say 68% of the cost is reimbursed by federal funds, and that the average actual daily rate is far below $500—adding that every county, from Pike to Lawrence to Adams, pays the same.
“These aren’t private negotiations. This is the Title IV-E rate, and it applies statewide. It’s misleading to suggest we’re profiteering off vulnerable kids.”
The administrator is calling for more transparency and less finger-pointing.
“We’re doing our jobs. We follow the law. We don’t set the rates. If there’s a problem with the system, let’s fix the system—not blame the people doing the work.”
With nearly $6.5 million spent last year on foster placements, and hundreds of runaway incidents reported, the financial and moral stakes are sky-high.
Meanwhile, young Jaylynn Harrell is still missing.
One thing is clear: accountability is overdue—from every corner.
