How many kids are in care?

We’re often asked how many children are in foster care in North Idaho. The answer isn’t as straightforward as it once was, especially as Idaho continues to expand pathways designed to keep families together whenever it’s safe to do so.

As of January 2026, there were 237 open child welfare cases in Region 1 (North Idaho). However, that number does not mean 237 children are living in foster care.

Those open cases include children in a variety of living situations:

• Some children are living at home with their parents, supported by prevention services or safety plans.

• Some are temporarily living with relatives or trusted family friends while remaining in their parents’ legal custody.

Of those 237 cases, 123 children are currently in foster care.

Among children in foster care:

• Some are placed in licensed foster homes.

• Some are living with relatives or family friends who have become licensed foster parents to care for their loved one.

• Some are in congregate care settings, such as Canopy Village or group homes.

• Some may be hospitalized or in juvenile detention.

It’s also important to note what these numbers do not include. The 237 open cases do not reflect children whose relatives are asked to assume guardianship rather than become foster parents—an arrangement that provides no financial support from the state.

Though we continue to see a drop in the number of children in official foster care, Village of Hope is very aware that there is an increasing number of families that are being labeled differently, and may have even higher support needs than the traditional foster family.

Would you join us in supporting them?