Northern Nevada’s foster care system is currently under significant strain. According to the Nevada Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS), approximately 400 children in rural counties—excluding Clark and Washoe—are in foster care, with new cases entering the system daily. This influx has pushed the demand for foster families to a critical level, creating an urgent need for more homes.
The Brookings Institution defines “out-of-home placement” as the removal of children from their biological families and placement in alternative care settings. These may include foster homes, kinship care, or residential facilities, typically due to circumstances such as abuse or neglect. Ideally, children are placed with foster families who have undergone specialized training and licensing, giving them a supportive environment. Often, one family may serve as a resource for a child through multiple stages—from emergency shelter to foster care and, if reunification with biological parents is not possible, ultimately to adoption.
DCFS statistics reveal that rural Nevada consistently lacks sufficient foster family placements. From 2022 through 2025, there has been a shortfall of at least 10% in available foster home beds compared to the number of children needing placement. This shortage means that the 400 children in rural Nevada foster care face additional hurdles. The shortage of foster families creates challenges in securing out-of-home placements that prioritize family settings.
Geography further complicates placement. In rural areas, moving a child to the “next town over” can mean an hour’s drive from their biological family, increasing emotional and logistical barriers. Such moves can intensify the trauma children have already experienced while in care.
Given the ongoing shortage, dozens of rural foster children are placed in group homes or institutions, such as rehabilitation facilities, rather than with foster families. This arrangement is less ideal, as it does not provide the familial support and stability that foster homes offer.
To address the gap, DCFS is actively seeking new foster families in rural Northern Nevada. The process of becoming a foster parent is more accessible than many might think. Applicants must be at least 21 years old, complete background checks and health screenings, finish pre-service training, and demonstrate financial stability. These requirements are designed to ensure that children are placed in safe, nurturing environments where their needs are met.
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, here are the steps to start:
- Contact DCFS Foster Care Recruiter for Rural Nevada, Perla Landa-Munoz, at (775) 684-1950 or via email at [email protected].
- Visit dcfs.nv.gov for detailed, step-by-step guidance on the application process.
- Attend regular information sessions hosted by DCFS across Northern Nevada to learn more about requirements, available training, and support for foster families.
Volunteering with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is another way to support foster children. CASA chapters exist in most Nevada counties, offering opportunities to become advocates for children in legal matters. Responsibilities include managing court records confidentially, attending court appearances, and supporting children who are disproportionately involved in the justice system due to their experiences in foster care.
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