New Publication Highlights Benefits of Subsidized Guardianship

Earlier this month, the Kids Are Waiting campaign released a report showing that more than 15,000 children and youth could leave foster care permanently and safely if a federally supported guardianship was available. Strengthening Families Through Guardianship: Issue Brief highlights the successes that state subsidized guardianship programs have had helping children leave care for good.

The reports notes that children living in foster placements with relatives are as safe as those living with non-relatives, are more likely to be placed with their brothers and sisters, and are more likely to be in the same placement one year later, which is an important measure of stability for children. Research shows that stability in a child’s life contributes to improved health and education outcomes.

The report also points out that supported guardianships can save government funds by closing the case and ending the ongoing social worker and court oversight that is required when children remain in foster care.