State of Foster Care in 2019: Overview and Trends

Introduction to Foster Care in the United States

In the United States, the number of children in foster care has been a focal point of public and governmental discussion. As of 2019, data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) indicated that more than 672,000 children spent time in U.S. foster care. The number of children in foster care, while fluctuating, has been on the rise since 2012 after experiencing a decline from 2002 to 2012. This article will explore the current state and trends in foster care in the United States, providing an in-depth analysis of the sector based on recent data and insights.

Current Statistics in Foster Care

The number of children in foster care in the U.S. as of September 30, 2017, was 443,000, according to the latest federal data from the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS). This number reflects a steady increase in the number of children in care since 2012. On any given day, there are nearly 424,000 children in foster care, a number that has remained relatively stable over the past few years.

Trends in Foster Care

The average length of time spent in foster care is nearly two years. However, six percent of children in care have stayed there for five or more years. This highlights the need for a swift and efficient system to find permanent homes for these children.

Age and Demographics of Children in Foster Care

The average age of children entering foster care is 8 years old. In 2019, 33% of children entering foster care were young people of color. The majority of children in foster care live in family settings, with about 89% of them placed with relatives or foster families. However, a significant minority—11%—live in institutions or group homes.

Adoption and Age Out of Foster Care

As of 2017, 69,000 more than 69,000 children with their parents' parental rights terminated were waiting for adoption. Additionally, more than 17,000 young people aged out of foster care in 2017 without permanent families. Research has shown that these youths are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness, unemployment, and incarceration in adulthood due to the lack of a permanent family connection.

Conclusion

The foster care system in the United States is a complex and evolving arena, with both challenges and successes. While the number of children in foster care continues to increase, efforts are underway to improve the process and ensure that all children in care have the opportunity to find a safe and permanent home.