The information was gathered by means of a written questionnaire and many telephone interviews involving more than 120 people from 98 State agencies. Findings showed that most State service systems are intricate, complicated networks combining a variety of service delivery approaches and organizational structures with little coordination. These structures serve children who are abused, neglected, dependent, delinquent, in need of supervision, or emotionally disturbed. Many States reported inadequate financial resources, regardless of the organizational structure or the service delivery system. Promising efforts to improve services include reforms of service delivery, the creation of flexible financing strategies, the integration of agency functions, encouragement of local solutions, and the creation of coordinating councils. Tables and appended charts