New report shows most NJ foster kids live with families

Posted on May 14, 2015

KIDS_COUNT_PR_foster_FINAL-cover440pxWith 91 percent of children in New Jersey’s foster care system living with families – not in institution-like settings – New Jersey was among the top 10 nationally for providing this critical care for vulnerable children, according to the latest KIDS COUNT® report from Annie E. Casey Foundation, Every Kid Needs a Family: Giving Children in the Child Welfare System the Best Chance for Success.

Many other states did not fare as well. The report found that on any given night 57,000 children across the nation go to bed without the care and comfort of a family.

This report emphasizes the critical importance of children having a lifelong connection to a family. The report also highlights promising ways that state and local government leaders, as well as policymakers, judges and others can work together to give every child that family.

While New Jersey is clearly ahead of the curve on this important front, continued commitment to protect our most vulnerable children and youth is critical. Court oversight is an important piece to making sure that happens.

View the report.

Read the release.

Check out NJ Kids Count data.