Black History Month: How You Can Help Create a More Equitable Foster Care System

Black History Month is a powerful reminder to pause and reflect on the racial inequalities that still exist in our country. While we’ve made progress in many areas, there’s one system where these disparities are especially painful—the foster care system.

The numbers tell a clear story. About 53% of Black children will face a child welfare investigation during their lifetime, and nearly 10% will enter foster care—that’s double the rate for white children. Once in care, Black children are less likely to reunite with their families, access services, or experience long-term stability. It’s heartbreaking, and sadly, the outcomes often include higher risks of homelessness and incarceration once they age out of the system.

The causes of these disparities are complex and tied to the long history of systemic racism in America. We could spend hours digging into how we got here, but let’s focus on something more actionable—what we can do to help change these statistics.

The Power of Policy… and People

First, let’s acknowledge that policymakers have been called out on these issues. The United Nations, through the International Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), urged the U.S. to update child welfare policies to reduce bias. For example, they advised amending the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) to use less punitive and more specific language, which could reduce bias in mandatory reporting.

That’s great, but we don’t have to wait for laws to change before we start making a difference. Change can happen right in our own communities, and there’s plenty we can do on a personal level.

Here’s How You Can Help

1. Start Conversations and Raise Awareness
   The first step is educating yourself and others. Share what you learn about racial disparities in foster care with your friends, family, and community. Don’t underestimate the power of a thoughtful conversation or a well-written social media post. Write letters to your local representatives and push for better oversight and more equitable practices in child welfare.
2. Be a Mentor or Recruit Others
   Mentors change lives—it’s that simple. But here’s the thing: while Black children are overrepresented in foster care, Black mentors (especially Black men) are severely underrepresented. Having a mentor who shares a similar background can make a world of difference for a child. If you’re in a position to mentor, that’s amazing! If not, you can still help by encouraging others to step up. You probably know someone who would make an incredible mentor—they just need that little nudge.
3. Support Local Organizations
   There are so many organizations working hard to create better outcomes for kids in foster care. Seek out those that prioritize equity and stability. One example is Stable Moments, which pairs kids with mentors for consistent, trust-building relationships. Volunteer, donate, or just spread the word about organizations doing this important work.

Keep the Momentum Going

Black History Month is a great time to reflect and take action, but this work shouldn’t stop when February ends. Let’s use this month as a chance to spark something lasting.

• Keep Learning: Seek out books, articles, and stories that highlight the experiences of Black children and families in foster care.
• Engage Others: Start conversations in your community, bring in diverse voices, and encourage others to get involved.
• Stay Active: Whether it’s writing letters, mentoring, or supporting local organizations, find your way to make a difference—and stick with it.

Real change is possible. It happens one step, one voice, and one action at a time. Together, we can create a foster care system where every child has the chance to feel safe, supported, and loved.