Rhode Island is spending tens of millions of dollars to place foster children in out-of-state facilities, a cost that goes beyond money and can take a heavy toll on families and the children themselves.
Data from the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families show over 70 children in state care are currently placed in residential facilities miles away from their families. That represents about 6% of children in out-of-home placements.
Those out-of-state placements cost Rhode Island nearly $23 million in 2024, a 19% increase from 2023…