Extended foster care helps youth transition to adulthood

Youth who age out of foster care when they turn 18 will have more options and support as they transition into adulthood, under the provisions of Senate Bill 5405, signed into law May 21 by Governor Inslee. Friends of Youth applauded the expansion of extended foster care support, adding eligibility for 70 percent more youth as they exit the foster care system. “Extended foster care ensures that youth have access to all the support they need to ‘launch’ successfully into adulthood,” said Terry Pottmeyer, Friends of Youth CEO. “After a year of experience with our own extended foster care program, we are even stronger advocates for the expansion of these services to more youth as they turn 18.” The legislation expands the eligibility pool for extended foster care to include those who are: • Attending college or vocational classes, or • Participating in a program or activity designed to promote employment or remove barriers to getting a job. The legislation also includes funding of more than $3 million over two years to provide the extended foster care support. The state Department of Social and Health Services also will be required to notify every foster child about the new availability of extended foster care by the time they reach the age of 17-and-a-half. “Providing additional support to youth in foster care that extends beyond the age of 18 is crucial to their long-term stability,” said DeAnn Adams, Program Manager for Friends of Youth’s Extended Foster Care Home. “Very few of us are able to be on our own, successfully, at the age of 18 without any support. Foster youth are even more vulnerable and often less prepared to handle the challenges of independence at the age of 18. It has been an exciting challenge to work with youth who are transitioning into a whole new phase of their life and be able to provide services and guidance as they begin to navigate life as an adult.” Friends of Youth continues its dedication to delivering a comprehensive range of therapeutic services for youth, young adults and families on the road to self-sufficiency. With more than 60 years of experience, national accreditation and 20 sites serving 17 cities, the agency provides safe places to live and emotional support for youth and families in challenging circumstances. For more information, please visit www.friendsofyouth.org.