Erica is a working college student who strives to make the best choices for her life. After growing up in foster care, she was trying to not let the odds defeat her and how far she has come as a young adult.
However, Erica found herself in an unsafe relationship in which she thought she could feel safe. Growing up in foster care, the feeling of being alone and trapped in unpleasant scenarios was a familiar feeling. This time she could no longer bear it.
Exiting Safely
As a working college student, Erica was barely able to pay her rent and bills, let alone create a safety net for herself. She questioned, “how can I make it out of this unlivable relationship safely?”
Desperate for a safe way out of this toxic relationship, Erica knew she could turn to Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation. Our Keys to Success program was a known safe place for her, where she knew she could receive the support she would need to rise above her current situation.
…Keys to Success program was a known safe place for her, where she knew she could
receive the support she would need to rise above her current situation.
Upon receiving Erica’s referral for assistance, our KTS housing specialist immediately reached out to understand the severity of her situation. Together, they created a safety plan and discussed the barriers that could affect her ability to rent her own place. Fortunately, the found and worked with a local apartment agency to secure a safe place of her own to call home.
Erica’s abuser promised her that she would staff and need him back to survive.
Not Looking Back
Thanks to a grant from Mercy C.A.R.E.S., Erica was able to leave her unsafe situation and not look back. Not only was she able to get her own apartment, but also allowed her to purchase her first bed at the age of 21 and get groceries and gas to make the move happen and get her to school the following Monday morning.
“I’ve dreamt about having somewhere to call my own since I was 13 years old,” said Erica. “What AFFCF has made possible is incredible. I am so thankful!”
– Erica
Be Part of the Solution
Young people transitioning from foster care to adulthood face many obstacles that can derail their success. You can help them overcome these roadblocks by making a donation to AFFCF. Doing so not only strengthens our communities, but also gives you a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state taxes through the Foster Care Tax Credit. Give today!