Broken Systems – Foster Care and Exploitation

The Story

Jasmine had already moved through five foster homes by the time she turned 16. Each time she began to settle, a placement would break down—sometimes because of her own struggles, sometimes because a family felt unprepared. By the time she entered her sixth placement, she no longer expected stability.

One day, after yet another argument, Jasmine ran. On the streets, she met someone who offered her safety, affection, and “family.” But that promise quickly unraveled into manipulation, control, and exploitation. Jasmine had simply traded one broken system for another—this time with traffickers who saw her as an easy target.

Jasmine’s story reflects a painful reality: youth in foster care are among the most at-risk for human trafficking.

The Statistics

• 60% of child trafficking victims in the U.S. have a history in foster care or group homes (National Foster Youth Institute).

• Children in the system often experience multiple placements, which increases instability and vulnerability.

• Lack of consistent adult support leaves many youth searching for belonging, making them susceptible to traffickers who promise love and family.

These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re children, teenagers, and young adults navigating life without the support they need.

Why Foster Care Youth Are Targeted

The foster care system is designed to protect, but cracks in the system often leave children exposed. Frequent moves, separation from siblings, and a lack of permanent caregivers create emotional wounds traffickers know how to exploit.

Traffickers step into the role of “stable” adults. They offer attention, material gifts, and affection—things many foster youth long for. But the cost is devastating: exploitation, fear, and cycles of abuse that can follow a child into adulthood.

How We Respond

At Free International, we work to bridge the gap by partnering with foster care agencies, schools, and community groups to provide awareness and training. Our goal is to equip those who work closest with vulnerable youth to recognize the red flags before exploitation happens.

Through Say Something, we create channels for foster youth to find a safe voice—whether that’s reporting concerns, connecting with supportive mentors, or finding encouragement that reminds them they are valued and not alone.

Call to Action

The foster care system may be broken, but children are not. Every child in care deserves love, safety, and a future free from exploitation.

You can be part of the solution—by learning the signs, supporting organizations fighting for vulnerable youth, and standing in the gap where the system falls short.

Because no child should be abandoned to traffickers simply because the system failed them.