This article examines foster care and adoption, health, and education of poor Indian children. The paper first explains the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, gives a historical overview of injustices done to American Indians, and reviews recent court rulings and federal and state action in regard to the Indian Child Welfare Act. The paper then has a section on health issues concerning Native Americans, including: lack of prenatal care; alcohol abuse; smoking; state money for Indian clinics; and health insurance. The final section discusses education of American Indian children, including: dropout rates; curriculum improvement; and cultural sensitivity training for teachers. (Contains 17 references.) (TD)