The President and First Lady Take Vital Steps to Improve America’s Foster Care System – A Critical First Step in the Fight Against Trafficking

Today, President Trump signed a new Executive Order focused on strengthening the nation’s foster care system, an action that carries profound importance for every child who has faced instability, neglect, or abuse during their formative years. For those of us at CPAC’s Center for Combating Human Trafficking this initiative represents more than just an administrative step forward – it’s a critical opportunity to safeguard children who are among the most at risk of falling prey to human traffickers.

Across the country, the foster care system is stretched thin. Caseworkers are overburdened, placements are often temporary, and resources for mental health and long-term stability are limited. Too many children age out of the system without the tools or support they need to thrive. Tragically, the consequences are not abstract. Studies have consistently shown that a disproportionate number of human trafficking victims have spent time in foster care. The vulnerabilities created by instability factors such as a lack of a permanent home, absence of trusted adults, and emotional trauma make these victims ripe for exploitation.

That is why this Executive Order matters. It will direct new attention and resources to improving coordination between federal, state, and local partners including both government agencies and private organizations. It also takes steps to ensure that child welfare agencies have the training, data, and community support necessary to intervene early and effectively. It will also empower frontline professionals including social workers, law enforcement, and nonprofit providers to share information and best practices that can help prevent children from falling through the cracks.

For CPAC’s Center for Combating Human Trafficking, our mission has always been rooted in advancing policies that defend the dignity and safety of every child. Reforming foster care is not just a social service issue; it’s a public safety and human rights issue. By addressing the systemic weaknesses that traffickers exploit, we can dramatically reduce the pipeline of vulnerable youth who are targeted for exploitation. When America’s foster youth succeed, human traffickers lose. That’s why this moment should be met not with politics, but with purpose. Together, we can ensure that every child in the foster care system is seen, protected, and given the chance to flourish.