The latest foster care data released by the Minnesota Department of Health shows a continued decline in the number of children being removed from their homes. At first glance, this might appear to be encouraging news. But numbers alone don’t tell the full story.
Over the past five years, the number of children in foster care on any given day has dropped by 31%. The most common reasons for placement in foster care remain deeply serious: caretaker drug abuse, allegations of neglect, and physical abuse.
While this decline may reflect progress in keeping families together through prevention and support, it also raises critical questions. Are children being left in homes where their safety is still at risk? Are there adequate supports in place for families to prevent abuse and neglect?
Alarmingly, child maltreatment fatalities in Minnesota appear to be increasing. In 2023 at least 32 children died from abuse or neglect, according to state data. Additionally, over 15% of children with a previous maltreatment report continue to be re-reported to the system each year. These numbers cast doubt on the idea that fewer removals automatically equal better outcomes for children.
At Safe Passage for Children of Minnesota, we believe the child welfare system must be measured not just by how few children enter foster care—but by how many are thriving.