Across the United States, there are more children in foster care than available foster homes. The challenge isn’t only foster family recruitment, but also foster family retention. Many begin the licensing process but never complete it, and other foster parents quit due to preventable barriers.
That’s where the Every Child model and the new Every Child Compass approach are changing how states recruit and retain foster families. With personal, concierge-style guidance, families receive consistent support from their first step through long-term fostering.
This article explores the challenges that hinder foster family recruitment and retention, and how both halves of the Every Child model help address the foster home shortage.
The Growing Need for Foster Families in the United States
Across the country, child welfare systems are facing a growing gap between the number of children entering care and the number of available foster families.
While more families are expressing interest in fostering, many never become licensed, and others leave due to a lack of support. This gap highlights the urgent need not only to recruit foster families, but to retain them.
The Foster Family Shortage Explained
The following data show the scope of the foster family shortage:
- In 2024, there were about 150,000* fewer foster homes than children in care.
- Up to 50% of foster families quit after their first year.
- Caseworker turnover ranges from 23% to 60% annually. For comparison, a healthy turnover rate is 10% to 15%.
These challenges create instability for both children and the families who step forward to help.
One of the ways we’re addressing the issue is through Every Child, a model that identifies and recruits ideal foster families. Created by our partner, the Contingent, Every Child uses data to identify these ideal families and help them start the foster process. This addresses the first half of a two-sided problem.
Why Foster Family Retention is the Bigger Challenge
While foster family recruitment is essential, retention is often the greater challenge. Since 2019, the number of foster homes in the United States has steadily declined. Understanding why foster families quit the system is key to building a stronger, more stable foster care program.
For many families, the biggest barriers appear before they ever welcome a child into their home. Common challenges include:
- Complex licensing steps: What appears to be a simple process may actually involve 15 to 20 steps
- Lack of clear communication: Families are often passed between multiple contacts with no single guide
- Delays and rigid timelines: Delayed documents or scheduling conflicts can result in closed applications
- Limited visibility: Families often don’t know what to expect next, creating frustration and uncertainty
These barriers don’t reflect a lack of willingness. They reveal a system that unintentionally makes it difficult for families to continue.
Hidden Barriers in the Foster Parent Licensing Process
Like many states, Arkansas leaders knew their foster licensing process needed improvement. To understand the foster family experience, they requested an audit of the state’s licensing process from our partner, The Contingent.
This audit revealed a system that lacked clarity, consistency, and a comprehensive view of the family journey. Even among professionals, no one had full visibility into the entire process from start to finish.
At the same time, our partners at Every Child Tennessee identified a similar issue. While more families expressed interest in fostering, far fewer completed the process. Time-based requirements and administrative hurdles unintentionally pushed families out.
How Every Child Compass Improves Foster Family Retention
To address these challenges, The Contingent developed Every Child Compass, a model designed specifically to strengthen foster family retention.
So what makes Every Child Compass different?
- Personal Support Agents: Each family is paired with a dedicated guide who walks with them from inquiry through fostering
- Clear, mapped journey: Families can see every step ahead, reducing confusion and uncertainty
- Proactive communication: Regular check-ins ensure families don’t fall through the cracks
- Technology-enabled support: Automated prompts and resources provide timely guidance
Think of it like concierge foster parenting. Instead of navigating the process alone, families receive consistent support at every stage. They’re guided through licensing, fostering, and even adoption through clear communication and practical support.
In short, Every Child Compass not only helps more families complete the licensing process but also increases long-term retention by reducing frustration, confusion, and burnout.
Why Recruitment and Retention Must Work Together
Every Child Compass is not a replacement for Every Child. Rather, it’s the completion. With both models working in tandem, we empower more ideal foster families to stand in and stay the course. Because of the joint efforts of states, nonprofits, and individuals, the insights uncovered through this work are shaping a model with the potential to strengthen foster families nationwide.
What This Means for the Future of Foster Families
Strengthening foster family recruitment and retention is not just about getting more numbers. It’s about ensuring every child in foster care has a stable, supportive home. By removing barriers and increasing support, more families can complete the licensing process and foster long-term.
Together, we’re working toward a world where no child is without a home, and no family journeys alone. You could be that family for a child in foster care, or help local foster families in your community.
Want to get started? Learn how to foster or serve in your state at the button below.
*Texas numbers unavailable.
