The Crisis in Los Angeles County’s Foster Care System

By CASA of Los Angeles

Los Angeles County has the largest child welfare system in the nation, with nearly 30,000 children navigating the instability of foster care and the juvenile justice system. Through no fault of their own, these young people face overwhelming challenges—disrupted education, inadequate healthcare, and an increased risk of homelessness and incarceration.

The statistics are staggering while California's overall high school graduation rate stands at 83%, only 53% of youth in foster care graduate on time, and a mere 3% earn a college degree. Nearly half struggle with mental health issues, with rates of PTSD nearly double those of combat veterans. Even their physical health suffers—higher rates of asthma, diabetes, and obesity are common due to inconsistent medical care and frequent relocations that disrupt continuity of treatment.

Access to healthcare is often fragmented, leaving critical conditions undiagnosed or poorly managed. Without a stable medical history, children in foster care may miss vital preventive care, from vaccinations to mental health screenings. Many go without proper advocacy, leading to long-term health complications that persist well into adulthood.

The challenges don’t stop there. Frequent home and school changes make it difficult for youth in foster care to form meaningful connections or receive consistent support. Studies show that between 11% and 38% of former foster youth will experience homelessness after aging out of the system. Even more alarming, 28% of California’s incarcerated population has spent time in foster care. Without stability, resources, and strong advocates, too many of these young people remain caught in a cycle of instability.

How CASA of Los Angeles Makes a Difference

In a system stretched thin, CASA of Los Angeles (CASA/LA) works to ensure that youth have equitable access to resources to help them thrive. Our trained and dedicated volunteers, known as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), provide individualized advocacy to children who need stable adult support. These advocates help ensure that children receive necessary educational resources, mental health services, and pathways to permanency—whether through reunification, adoption, or other long-term placements.

And the impact is tangible:

• 77% of children in our program reported improved permanency outcomes.

• 74% demonstrated improvements in mental health.

• Over 50% showed educational advancements.

• 57 children were reunited with their parents.

• 153 transitional-age youth were connected to housing, employment, and critical resources.

Addressing the foster care crisis requires a community-wide effort. To learn more, visit casala.org or reach out to Kim Goldman with the CASA/LA Development team.