KidSafe Collaborative

Congratulations to Dr. Lewis First on your retirement!

Dr. First has been a true champion for Vermont's children throughout his remarkable career, and all of us at KidSafe Collaborative are incredibly grateful to have called him a partner, Honorary Board Member, and a beloved emcee of our Outstanding Service Awards.

His kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the importance of protecting children have left a lasting impact on our organization and so many others.

Thank you, Dr. First, for everything you've done for kids and families. Wishing you a retirement filled with health, new adventures, and every happiness. You've earned it!

On Monday, Governor Scott signed H.657 into law, marking an important step forward for children, youth, and families in Vermont.

This legislation includes meaningful changes that better protect and support young people by safeguarding Social Security benefits for foster youth, removing the Reach Up asset limit, and strengthening supports for young people in DCF custody and unaccompanied youth.

KidSafe Collaborative, representing the CHARM Team, is also honored to be named as a member of the newly established Prenatal Engagement and Family Support Working Group, and we look forward to contributing to this important work alongside partners from across the state.

Progress like this is worth celebrating. It reflects years of advocacy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and families. While these changes will require continued investment and support from the systems and professionals responsible for implementation, difficult work is often the work most worth doing.

We are grateful to everyone who helped make this legislation possible and hopeful about what it represents: a Vermont that continues to choose policies grounded in dignity, prevention, and the belief that every child and family deserves the opportunity to thrive.

CHARM is honored to be included in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) newly released publication, Healthy Starts: Postpartum OUD Care Transitions for Mother and Infant. As the team facilitator, we at KidSafe Collaborative are proud of all our partners involved in this team and are excited to share this news!

To learn about the CHARM Team and access a copy of this publication visit:

CHARM Team | KidSafe Collaborative | Burlington, VT CHARM Connects women who are expecting or have recently delivered babies and have a history of opioid use disorder with coordinated prenatal care and substance abuse treatment – to improve health for both mothers and babies.