Child Trends Data Snapshot Foster Care

Foster Care Data Snapshot 2011

By Child Trends

March 21, 2011

Summary

The goal of U.S. child welfare is to find safe, permanent homes for children, but many children in foster care never attain a permanent family. Children spend years in foster programs and are at greater risk for developing emotional, behavioral and academic challenges. The number of children in foster care decreased over the past few years, but the decline is not steady and carries mixed results.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

State-by-state data vary significantly due to funding structures, policies and practices.

The number of children entering foster care decreased overall from 2000 to 2009, although with fluctuations that include a spike in 2005.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations