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1/5/2024
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Senate President Ruggerio, House Speaker Shekarchi issue statements about report on St. Mary's Home for Children
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Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio (D-Dist. 4, North Providence, Providence) and House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi (D-Dist. 23, Warwick) today issued the following statements on the Child Avocate's report on conditions at the St. Mary's Home for Children in North Providence:
From Senate President Ruggerio:
“I am extremely troubled by the serious issues outlined in the Child Advocate’s report regarding St. Mary’s Home for Children, and I am grateful to that office for the investigation that brought these concerns to light. I have relayed my concerns to the Director of the Department of Children, Youth & Families as well. In the near future, the Senate Committee on Rules, Government Ethics & Oversight will hold hearings on this issue to ensure accountability and determine if additional legislative action is necessary. Creating an in-state residential treatment facility for Rhode Island’s most at-risk girls has been an urgent priority for the Senate. Protecting our most vulnerable children, and ensuring they have access to essential treatment and services in our state, remains an absolute top priority for me and the entire Senate.”
From Speaker Shekarchi:
“I am deeply disturbed by the allegations and I have spoken to the DCYF director to express these concerns. A House Oversight Committee hearing is warranted to bring all the facts to light. Committee Chairwoman Patricia Serpa and I are already discussing the plans for a hearing to be held in short order.”
For more information, contact:
Meredyth R. Whitty, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-1923
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