Maryland is reporting a significant increase in the number of children in foster care being placed with relatives or other trusted adults following changes to the state’s kinship care system.
According to the Maryland Department of Human Services, 50% of children under age 10 in foster care were living with kin as of July 2026, compared with 34.5% in July 2024. The state says the increase represents more than 230 additional children under 10 remaining with family by blood or by choice while in out-of-home care.
Across all age groups, DHS says more than 440 additional young people were living with kin as of July compared with before Maryland’s 2024 Kinship Care Law took effect, representing a 46% increase in the state’s kinship placement rate. Maryland’s Family Matters initiative prioritizes placing children with relatives, neighbors and other trusted adults when possible. DHS describes kinship care as a way to maintain connections with family, culture, schools and communities.
The state has also changed its licensing process for kinship caregivers, allowing more families to qualify for financial assistance. According to DHS, the percentage of kinship caregivers who are licensed increased from 25% in December 2024 to 88% as of September 2026. The department says it has invested an additional $5 million to support kinship caregivers.
“With half of Maryland’s youngest children remaining with family during their most formative years, we are better serving families and improving the well-being of children in our care,” DHS Acting Secretary Stacy L. Rodgers said.
Governor Wes Moore said the state’s goal is to ensure children in foster care have supportive and safe environments while maintaining connections with people they know and trust. Maryland enacted its kinship law in 2024, and DHS subsequently expanded training, changed licensing policies and increased support for kinship families. Earlier state data showed the percentage of all youth in out-of-home care living with kin had already increased from 25% in November 2024 to 33% by February 2026.
