Governor Henry McMaster announced on May 5 that South Carolina will participate in the national initiative ‘A Home for Every Child.’ The program aims to improve the ratio of foster homes to children in foster care and reduce unnecessary entries into the system.
The initiative matters because it addresses a shortage of licensed foster homes, which creates challenges for placing children in safe and stable environments. By joining this effort, South Carolina seeks to strengthen support for families, recruit and retain more foster parents, and enhance community-based prevention services.
“The month of May has been recognized each year in my administration as Foster Care Awareness Month, and this year is no exception. Foster parents play an essential role in serving our state’s children and youth when they cannot safely remain with their parents or caregivers,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “I applaud the Trump administration for bringing this critical initiative to states as an opportunity to make a lasting difference in a young person’s life. It is a chance to offer stability, hope, and the sense of belonging every young person deserves.”
Assistant Secretary Alex J. Adams from the U.S. Administration for Children and Families said during the event that “South Carolina’s decision to join ‘A Home for Every Child’ is a meaningful step toward ensuring every child grows up in a safe, loving, stable family.” Adams added: “When states can create the conditions that prevent unnecessary entries into foster care, make it easier for families to become foster parents, and cut red tape to empower case managers, we drive better outcomes for children and families. The Trump administration is proud to partner with Governor McMaster, and together, we look forward to improving South Carolina’s ratio of foster home to children in care.” According to ACF data shared at the event, there are only 57 licensed foster homes available nationwide per 100 children entering care.
Tony Catone, Director of South Carolina’s Department of Social Services (DSS), thanked professionals and partners working on behalf of vulnerable youth: “Foster parents are a vital part of our state’s service… They are our kindred spirits in service… particularly including those that step up… through kinship care,” Catone said. He also noted ongoing efforts with community partners “to recruit, train, support and retain new foster parents” especially those willing serve older youth or siblings groups.
This partnership supports President Trump’s Executive Order on fostering improvements nationwide as well as First Lady Melania Trump’s commitment toward better outcomes for children in care systems. According to the official website, Henry McMaster leads as governor of South Carolina within state government administration; his office forms partnerships with local governments and organizations while supporting education initiatives across communities.
South Carolina has made progress by reducing entries into care using kin-first placements along with safety improvements under federal settlement agreements.
Residents interested in learning more about becoming foster parents or helping local families can visit heartfeltcalling.org.
