The T3C System is designed to strengthen safety, permanency, and well-being for children, youth, and young adults in foster care. It does this through a universal assessment process, a robust network of high-quality services, and a continuous quality improvement framework that adapts to changing needs.

The Texas Legislature has made a significant, multi-million-dollar investment in the success of the T3C System by fully funding a comprehensive rate structure and providing resources to support implementation and transition. This work reflects strong collaboration among Single Source Continuum Contractors (SSCCs), Residential Child Care providers, and other child welfare partners, as well as DFPS and HHSC. Together, these stakeholders have contributed their expertise, time, and resources to develop Service Packages, Add-On Services, and the universal assessment process.

These collective efforts are expected to create a more stable, supportive, and effective foster care system by:

• Increasing the number of children, youth, and young adults who remain safe while in care

• Placing children and youth closer to their home communities whenever possible

• Strengthening sibling, parental, familial, and kinship caregiver connections

• Improving how children and youth are matched with caregivers, reducing unnecessary placement changes

• Enhancing coordination between child welfare services and STAR Health providers

• Identifying and delivering appropriate treatment services more quickly to support healing, permanency, and long-term well-being

• Reducing reliance on out-of-state placements, child-specific services, and exceptional care when local, appropriate options are available

Together, the T3C System represents a coordinated, well-resourced approach to improving outcomes and experiences for children, youth, and young adults in foster care across Texas.