Aging out of the foster care system is a pivotal moment for teens, marking their transition from state care to the independence and responsibilities of adulthood. As someone fortunate enough to foster teens during this crucial period, your role in their journey is incredibly impactful. Creating a robust and supportive plan to help these young adults step into adulthood with confidence and the necessary resources is essential. Keep reading for actionable steps to craft a positive and empowering plan for the teens aging out of foster care.
Understanding the Challenges
In 2021, over 19,000 youth aged out of foster care without reuniting with their parents or finding another permanent family. These young adults face the challenges of transitioning to adulthood without the support of a stable family and often lose access to foster care services with severe consequences, including:
- Lack of Stable Housing: One in five report experiencing homelessness between ages 17 and 19, and over one in four (29%) report being homeless from 19 to 21
- Increased Incarceration: One in five report being incarcerated between ages 17 to 19 and ages 19 to 21
- Early Parenthood: One in 10 reports becoming a parent between ages 17 and 19, while nearly one in four (23%) say they became parents between ages 19 and 21.
In addition, those who have aged out of care are more likely to encounter mental and physical health issues, academic difficulties, and other lifelong adversities. Youth of color are disproportionately affected.
5 Steps for a Positive Transition Plan
Step 1: Education and Career Planning
- Encourage Continuing Education
Promote higher education or vocational training. Programs like the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood provide funding and support for education and training.
- Career Counseling
Connect teens with career counseling services. The US Department of Labor offers several youth employment programs, and many states provide job training and placement services specifically for young adults.
Step 2: Financial Literacy
- Budgeting and Saving
Teach teens the importance of budgeting and saving. Utilize resources from MyMoney.gov to provide practical financial literacy education.
- Establishing Credit
Guide them in understanding credit scores and how to build credit responsibly. Opening a secured credit card can be a safe way to start.
Step 3: Securing Housing
- Transitional Housing Programs
Identify transitional housing programs that offer a safe place to live while they gain independence. Youth Villages’ Transitional Living Program is one such program providing comprehensive support.
- Rental Assistance
Help those who have aged out of care apply for rental assistance programs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers various options for low-income individuals.
Step 4: Emotional and Social Support
- Mentorship Programs
Encourage participation in mentorship programs. Mentors can provide guidance, support, and a sense of stability. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters offer valuable connections.
- Counseling Services
Ensure access to mental health services. Counseling can help people deal with the emotional stress of transitioning out of foster care. Organizations like Mental Health America offer resources and support.
Step 5: Building a Support Network
- Foster Parent Involvement
Continue to be a source of support and guidance even after they leave your home. Maintain regular contact and offer advice as needed.
- Community Resources
Connect them with local community resources, like United Way, which can provide various forms of assistance, from financial support to job training.
Change a Teen’s Life Today
Creating a positive plan for teens aging out of foster care involves addressing their educational, financial, residential, emotional, and social needs. By leveraging available resources and providing ongoing support, foster parents can help these young adults successfully transition into independent and fulfilling lives.
By following these steps and utilizing the resources provided, foster parents can significantly impact the future success of teens aging out of foster care. For more detailed information and additional resources, visit the links provided throughout this guide.
If you’re ready to take on the life-changing mission of fostering children and youth, please contact Alpha Treatment Centers today. For more than 30 years, Alpha Treatment Centers, Foster Family Agency, and Alpha Adoption Centers have provided resource homes for children and youth and facilitated adoptions. Accredited by CARF International, our organization helps build strong, resilient families. Contact us if you’re ready to make a difference in a child’s life!