A new report says New Mexico does better than most states in placing foster children in family settings.
An Annie E. Casey Foundation study released Tuesday found 92 percent of foster children in New Mexico are in family placements. That's a higher percentage than 43 other states.
The study says New Mexico also does well in the percentage of children who are placed in the care of a relative like a grandparent. Five percent of New Mexico's foster kids are in the care of relatives. Only four states have a higher percentage.
New Mexico Voices for Children executive director Veronica Garcia says the kinship care rate speaks to the state's cultural roots.
Improved foster care has been a focus of Gov. Susana Martinez since taking office in 2010.
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