COVID-19 drives a higher need for foster homes

By Megan Wehring

With nearly 2,200 foster children in Central Texas, local foster agencies are receiving more notices of children in need of placement. This influx of calls is driven by the stresses of COVID-19, resulting in fewer families capable of fostering.

In comparison from December 2020 to December 2019, there were 200 more children in need of foster homes, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). January 2021 data is not yet available. DFPS sets regions all across the state; Hays and Travis are just two out of the 30 counties that Region 7 serves.