Hillsborough foster agency, cash-strapped and overloaded with kids, looks to state to cover $4.1 million shortfall

TAMPA — With three months still left in its fiscal year, the agency that runs foster care in Hillsborough County says it is facing a $4.1 million shortfall and wants the state to help.

Eckerd Connects announced the deficit at a meeting of its board Tuesday. Officials are blaming a 44 percent rise in the number of children in care over the past three years, which they say is the result of the state’s opioid epidemic and high rates of domestic abuse.

More >> Hillsborough foster agency, cash-strapped and overloaded with kids, looks to state to cover $4.1 million shortfall