The U.S. foster care system exists to provide temporary, stable homes for children who have been separated from their parents for their own safety and wellbeing. Foster care is intended as a short-term solution, with a primary goal of reunifying children with their families. When that is not possible, most children become eligible for adoption.
There are currently more than 108,000 children and teens awaiting the permanency of a loving, nurturing family.
NCFA advocates for permanency for every child in foster care, whether that permanency is achieved through reunification or adoption. We give special attention to finding families for children currently eligible and waiting to be adopted.
Facts & Statistics
How long do children typically spend in foster care before being adopted?
60% of children awaiting adoption have spent more than two years in foster care
What is the average age of a child awaiting adoption from foster care?
7.6 years old
About how many children in foster are legally free for adoption and awaiting permanency?
108,877
Source: AFCARS FY 2022
Considering Adoption from Foster Care?
Read these resources first.
Understanding the Needs and Experiences of Children in Foster Care
Before you open your home to a child awaiting permanency, it is crucial to understand the unique aspects of parenting a child adopted from foster care.
It is essential for all foster and adoptive parents to be educated and equipped to meet the unique needs of their future child and the experiences they may face as a family. We encourage all prospective foster and adoptive parents to take a proactive approach in preparing for this lifelong journey by learning about the core issues surrounding foster care and adoption.
Many people are unaware of how many children awaiting adoption have special needs, are teenagers, or are part of a sibling group. Many also don’t know how rewarding it can be to parent an older child, or a child with a medical need. While you may have a specific vision for the child you hope to adopt, it’s important to recognize that many children may fall outside these categories.
About the Process
Start learning about the adoption process now with our free, easy-to-access resources.
Downloadable Guide: The Adoption Process
General step-by-step guide for adopting a child
Free Recorded Webinar: Adoption 101
Overview of adoption types and considerations
Recorded Webinar: Adoption from Foster Care 101
Adoption from foster care basics and answers to common questions
Ongoing Engagement with Birth Family
Children who enter foster care often have important connections to birth family members. When safe and appropriate, maintaining some level of contact with birth family is common and encouraged while the child is in foster care and after adoption.
Explore the resources below to learn more.