Maryland foster children housed in hotels cost $1,400 daily

In Maryland, foster children are being placed in hotels when no other housing options are available. This practice costs about $1,400 per day per child, leading to significant state expenditures, which rose from $26.1 million in fiscal 2022 to $59.5 million in fiscal 2024. As of March 10, 2025, 17 foster youth were living in hotels, down from 28 in early February. Advocates express concerns about the safety and well-being of these children, who often face challenges adjusting to more structured environments after hotel stays. The Maryland Department of Human Services is implementing new policies to improve oversight and tracking of children in hotels. Legislative efforts are underway to address broader issues in child welfare, but advocates emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions.