Massachusetts Foster Care Facts

Did You Know...

... that there are 10,919 children in foster care in Massachusetts.*

... that there are only 2,520 foster homes open to all the foster children in Massachusetts.*

... that 54% of the children in foster care are 12 years old or older.*

... that 2,856 of the children in foster care are waiting to be adopted.*

... that 15% of the children in foster care are working toward independent living.

... that of the children in foster care, 43% have been in continuous care for more than 2 years.*

... that National studies show that relationships and permanent connections with adults have the greatest impact on the positive development of youth.**

... that a consistent, caring relationship with a responsible adult is a major factor in helping at-risk youth overcome the obstacles they face.**

* Commonwealth of Massachusetts. (2003.) Department of Social Services Quarterly Report: Fiscal Year 2003 2nd Quarter.

** Charles, K., Nelson, J. (2000.) Permanency Planning: Creating Life Long Connections. Tulsa OK: National Resource Center for Youth Development.

For more information about how you can help contact Francyne Fuller, Casey Family Services, at (978) 937-1877 or (800) 883-8836.