ENDalija Snieškienė charts the development of foster family care in Lithuania since 1945. Using a framework comprising the concepts of identity, resources and relationships, she analyses services in three historical periods: the Communist system 1945–91; the early years of independence 1991–2004; and the status of Lithuania as a democratic EU state for the past five years. The factors affecting the nature, causes and consequences of reform are explored. [From the publication]