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This article characterizes the Portuguese family foster care system, which has one of the highest rates of placement of children in residential care compared to other European countries. It describes its historical evolution, the legal framework in force and the role of the main actors involved in this type of family placement. It also seeks to identify the factors that are at the origin of a care system that remains centered and has even reinforced, in recent years, the use of residential care. This study is based on the analysis of the legal and political framework, and highlights in the scientific research carried out in Portugal in the 21st century a set of testimonies from children, caregivers and families who interpret in first person the advances, difficulties and challenges associated with foster care. It ends with an identification of challenges that are posed in practice, and to the decision maker, to develop a successful deinstitutionalization process, and among which are included (i) the dissemination and promotion of foster care culture; (ii) the selection and training of new fostercare families; (iii) the availability and improvement of information that allows an effective monitoring of the system; (iv) and the reclassification of types and modalities of foster care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]