Data

Insights from data

We use data to better understand what works best to improve safety and well-being outcomes. With this information, we track progress and develop resources and educational materials to drive change in the child and family well-being system.

Education

A shared vision of change

We promote promising practices and underlying policies that improve the lives of vulnerable children and their families. In particular, we provide information about policies that allow child welfare systems to make smart, effective investments so more children have the opportunity to grow up in safe, stable and supportive families.

We are committed to supporting federal child welfare policy changes that will provide every state with the ability to invest existing resources in the most effective strategies to safely reduce the need for foster care, strengthen families and improve the safety and success of all children.

Partnerships

Collaborating

We constantly collaborate with a broad range of partners to collectively extend the depth and reach of our public policy work with executive, judicial and legislative branches of federal, state and local governments.

Policy resources

We have many resources regarding effective public policy that support the well-being of children and families.

  1. What is a well-functioning child protection agency?

    This white paper outlines the purpose and responsibilities of a well-functioning child protection agency.

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  2. Analysis of state definitions of child neglect

    A review of child abuse and neglect definitions in state statutes found they vary widely and may contribute to unnecessary CPS intervention.

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  3. The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act

    This brief provides background on CAPTA, which provides grants to states to support prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect.

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  4. The Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program: Background and Context

    This paper describes the Promoting Safe and Stable Families Program, including an overview of the program’s funding and research on its effectiveness.

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  5. The Role of Accountability in Child Welfare Finance Reform

    This white paper describes the accountability framework needed for smart investment of federal funding in child welfare.

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  6. The Need for Federal Finance Reform: Ensuring Safe, Nurturing and Permanent Families for Children

    This white paper analyzes how child welfare funding structures can align with the goal of providing safe, nurturing and permanent families for all children.

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  7. Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act: Improving Lives and Opportunities for Children in Foster Care

    This document explains how the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act benefits young people in care.

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