No Family, No Future

California has the largest welfare system in the nation, accounting for 80,000 children in the state's foster care. In 2001, legislation established the 'Child Welfare Services Outcome and Accountability System' to improve children and families within the welfare system. In the last 3 years California has made significant progress in improving outcomes for children. Although, there has been improvements there is still a serious statewide shortage of families who are able to care for foster children, in turn threatening any progress that has been made. Improvements are trying to be made concerning: sibling placement, placement in institutions, group care, and adoption will likely be slowed. Foster care rates are roughly 23% lower than in 2000 when adjusted for inflation.

The number of foster family home placements statewide has decreased by 30% since 1999. While these licensed family homes decline, the foster family agency and group home placements expand. Licensed foster care homes average around $425 to $597 a month, while group homes cost between $1,454 and $6,371 per month.