Special Series

High Stakes, Silent Systems

An investigation on sexual and reproductive health in foster care. This Imprint review of 50 state policies and interviews with dozens of current and former foster youth, child welfare experts, officials and legal advocates revealed a troubling lack of critical guidance.

5/9/2023

Foster Care’s Missing Policies For Sexual and Reproductive Health 

Michael Fitzgerald

HIGH STAKES, SILENT SYSTEMS: An Imprint Investigation reveals a troubling lack of critical guidance and access to services.

5/18/2023

Foster Care’s Conflicting Policies For Sexual and Reproductive Health 

Michael Fitzgerald

HIGH STAKES, SILENT SYSTEMS: Part two of The Imprint's investigation finds some child welfare policies at odds with minors' rights to abortion and birth control.

5/23/2023

How to Talk to Foster Youth About Sex, Relationships and Self-Care (Hint: It’s Not Just About ‘Sex’)

Michael Fitzgerald

HIGH STAKES, SILENT SYSTEMS, Part III: An experienced sexual health educator speaks about how caseworkers and caregivers can support youth through the most sensitive stages of adolescence.

8/10/2023

Unique Coalition Provides Texas Foster Youth With Sexual and Reproductive Health Education 

Michael Fitzgerald

Despite taboos, former foster youth, sexual health educators and child welfare experts have teamed up to further awareness.

9/27/2023

Landmark Study Marks Progress  — and Critical Gaps — in Reproductive Health for California Foster Youth

Michael Fitzgerald and Jeremy Loudenback

Illustration by Millering, Adobe Stock.
California state officials revealed new data today showing that young people in the nation’s largest foster care system are being better-served when it comes to sexual and reproductive health care, but key shortcomings remain in services for pregnant and parenting youth, particularly youth of color.