The Arkansas House Committee for Aging, Children and Youth, and Legislative and Military Affairs recently reviewed the annual report from the Department of Human Services’ Division of Children and Family Services, providing insights into the state’s foster care system during State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2024. The report revealed that Arkansas had 3,553 children in foster care at the end of SFY 2024, representing a 12 percent decrease from the previous fiscal year.
One key highlight was that more children exited foster care than entered the system in SFY 2024, showing progress in achieving permanency for vulnerable children. Neglect and substance abuse were the main reasons for children entering foster care during the year. Of the children who left foster care, 42 percent were reunified with their families, 30 percent were adopted, and 9 percent were discharged to relative custody. Importantly, 92 percent of children exiting care achieved permanency through various avenues.
The division aims to have at least one foster home bed available for each child in foster care, with a ratio of 0.75 licensed foster home beds to children in foster care at the end of the year. Foster parents play a crucial role in supporting families and working with case workers to ensure the well-being of children in their care, making a positive impact across the community. Those interested in becoming foster parents can find more information on the Arkansas House website at arkansashouse.org.
Source
Photo credit www.arkansashouse.org