Aging out of the system...?

I read another article about funding being cut for support of kids who are aging out of the system. Are there resources or programs that people can refer me to consider donating time/money to that are devoted to support kids who age out? It just seems like so many...too many...people let these kids down and their future is not a bright one.

2010-07-06T15:52:00Z

I looked into this today with my state and they basically said they administer programs for kids nearing the age out but at the end of the day consider their job done at 18 though they recognize the need for after 18 programs which is why they still adopt kids out through foster care after they turn 18 if they are still in HS. It does look like they have some sort of mentorship program for newly aged out kids.

They have some other links they are sending me where they send kids for help and support and many seem to be religious/church based. I am going to meet with our local school tomorrow about how to set up scholarship funding for foster kids who'd like to go to college. Don't know anything about it but I know the company I work for would likely support it with matching funds if I pulled something together. Has anyone else set up anything like this? How about furniture drives and college school supplies?

2010-07-06T15:55:10Z

I asked about anon sponsorship of a child. The state has a fund you can donate to for kids in the system for foster parents to spend on highschool rings, bikes etc and anything special above the 300 a month payments they receive.

2010-07-07T11:46:55Z

Mkate--thank you for the link! It was the best site so far and it was exactly what I was looking for. I am sort of surprised that I wasn't referred to it by the folks I spoke with as it looks like a national org.

MamaKate2010-07-07T09:08:01Z

Favorite Answer

Try talking to the Foster Care Alumni Association. They could probably best direct you in how to help.

http://www.fostercarealumni.org/

ETA: I have heard very good things about them. I hope they are able to give you the information you are looking for. :)

I2010-07-06T19:50:46Z

I think this is a great idea but have never heard of such a program. These kids could use mentors. If they go to college they would probably appreciate care packages or the chance to get out of the dorm for awhile like most kids. A lot of times the dorms close for holidays leaving kids with nowhere to go over Thanksgiving or Christmas. Where do the kids go who don't have families?

Call DCFS and ask them.

cricketlady2010-07-06T21:24:12Z

In the southern part of my state kids who are not adopted or have guardianship status within their foster home are still welcomed to stay with the family that fostered them. The parents help the child get a job, go to college, or enter a transition or independent living program.

You have great intentions.

AnnaBelle2010-07-06T22:09:52Z

While I agree with "I am a hippie", I'm still wondering where the money/items from said drive would go. I mean, who would facilitate the dispersion of items...? I'm not being an a$$hole, I'm genuinely curious. Are there organizations that would facilitate such a program, so that kids who were aging out would know where to go for these resources? Sorry to answer a question with a question, but it would be good to know.

ETA: @I am a hippie: Yeah, I get that. It was YOU who mentioned items...shower curtains, etc...Which is what I was referencing in my answer. Don't worry, no one here could possibly be naive enough to think that handing a kid some towels is going to set them up for life.

Covenant House. Perfect. THAT is the information I was looking for. Thank you.

Cleopatra2010-07-06T19:21:34Z

Could you not just anonymously sponsor a child ??