For young men and women in foster care, turning 18 represents independence. At this point, they can leave the foster care system. Many look forward to moving out of group homes, where privacy and independence are limited. Others may be fond of their foster families, but have no desire to be adopted for personal reasons.
Either way, those without support from biological or adoptive families should know that they can opt to stay in the foster care system while they build independence.
Voluntary Agreement to Stay in Foster Care
The responsibilities of adulthood are daunting to any teenager. Most 18-year-olds don’t transition immediately from dependence to independence; rather, they receive support from family members while they pursue education or job training, build up their finances, and learn life skills. Children who age out of foster care do not enjoy these advantages. They may not have co-signers who can vouch for them on rental agreements, they may not have savings, and if they struggle, they may not have somebody to “move back home” with.
A voluntary agreement to stay allows young adults to remain in the foster care system until the age of 21. They are provided with a stipend, insurance coverage, and tuition help. They can also take advantage of career counseling and placement in apartments.
Help for Youth Who Have Aged Out of the Foster System
Whatever choices you make and whatever your unique situation, you deserve a bright future. At AFFCF, we have spent years awarding grants and donating supplies to enrich the lives of children and teens in foster care. We launched our Keys to Success program to help those who are aging out with career coaching and job placement. We also award post-secondary scholarships to successful applicants, with up to $5000 per academic year for university tuition, or $2000 for community college or trade school.
Donate to AFFCF to Support Foster Teens and Young Adults
From swim lessons and bicycles to apartment set-up and scholarships, your donation creates opportunities for children and young adults in foster care.