This 2023 signature report explores a vision for child well-being where every family has the opportunity to prosper. Today, approximately 377,000 children live in foster care across America. Each child represents a separation from their home, family and the essential networks of teachers and mentors that provide stability. This staggering figure reflects a critical national challenge: our collective responsibility to ensure every child can grow up within their own family, connected to the people and cultures that help them thrive.
The following highlights a better path forward, sharing how communities are partnering with families to build a supportive foundation through innovative tools and strategies. By investing effectively in proactive, upstream approaches, jurisdictions are addressing the root causes of instability. These efforts move us toward a future defined by thriving families, safer children and stronger communities where every family has the resources needed to succeed together.