This Federal report examines custody relinquishment, which occurs when parents place their children in foster care primarily to access behavioral health or disability services that are otherwise unavailable or unaffordable, rather than due to abuse or neglect.
The study estimates that approximately 5% of foster care entries nationwide may involve custody relinquishment, with significant variation across states, highlighting gaps in access to mental health and disability services outside the child welfare system.
The findings underscore the need for stronger service systems and policy solutions that allow families to obtain necessary treatment and supports without having to relinquish custody, helping prevent unnecessary foster care placements and family disruption.
