Number of children in foster care continues to increase

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children's Bureau

This report provides preliminary estimates of Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) data for FY 2016 in the United States. As states are permitted to resubmit AFCARS data, the estimates may change over time. This report reflects all AFCARS data received as of October 20, 2017 related to AFCARS reporting periods through September 30, 2016. The report indicates that the number of children in foster care in the US has increased for the fourth consecutive year.