The nation's foster care system has been overwhelmed during the pandemic. In Missouri, about 1,500 children are waiting to be placed into a foster home.

Experts believe the need will only grow as children head back to school.

KMBC talked to Jeannette Koster, Director of the Foster Care & Adoption Program at Saint Luke's Crittenton Children's Center, about the need for foster parents and families and the pandemic's impact.

Learn more about Foster Care and Foster-to-Adopt.

Watch the full story below.

Related Content

Oct. 1, 2020
Saint Luke's Crittenton Children's Center expands Foster Care Services to Help More Kansas City Children
The state of Missouri extended Crittenton’s contract based on exceptional performance over the past five years. In the months ahead, Crittenton will increase the number of foster children it serves from 225 currently to 435.
Jan. 13, 2021
Health News You Can Use: Children's Mental Health Through the Pandemic
Amanda Davis, Director of Intake Services at Saint Luke's Crittenton Children's Center, talks about the mental health impact of the pandemic on our youth.
Sep. 16, 2020
KSHB: Saint Luke's Crittenton Children's Center offers tips for student mental health during pandemic
With schools reopening the combination of virtual learning and isolation at home is really taking a toll on children.