How the Foster System Has Become Ground Zero for the Drug War

This report was created by Movement for Family Power, Drug Policy Alliance, and the NYU Family Defense Clinic.

This report documents how the foster system has become ground zero for the United States drug war. It draws from extensive interviews with a variety of people who interact with the foster system across the country, a deep dive into the academic literature and data obtained through data requests to document the harm and violence the foster system inflicts on millions of parents and families every year. After an extensive national overview, it takes a close look at the Bronx, New York. It makes recommendations for reform based on the principles of harm reduction, science, and respect for the human and civil rights of parents and the integrity of families.