Fostering Independence

Issue #125, September/October 2002

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Approximately 150,000 teens are in foster care. about 20,000 of these older youth “age out” of foster homes and institutions each year, according to the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA). The age at which foster care youth must leave the system varies from state to state. CWLA reports that at least 22 states have set that age at 21; Massachusetts has the option to age out youth at 23. Nineteen states age out foster care youth at 18. Many teens also leave the system prior to the “official” emancipation age and try to make a go of living on their own.

The Foster Care Independence Act of 1999 doubles federal funding available for independent living programs from $70 million to $140 million a year. This money can be used to offer educational, vocational, or job training; training in daily living skills; prevention of substance abuse and pregnancy; and preventive health activities. Funds can also be used for housing assistance and to connect foster teens to dedicated adults willing to serve as mentors.

States must match 20 percent of independent living program funds and allot some portion of their funds to assist young people who have left foster care but are not yet 21. Up to 30 percent of the federal funds may be used to provide room and board for youths between the ages of 18 and 21. In addition $2.1 million must be used to evaluate the state independent living programs.

Some child advocates are concerned that $140 million is not enough, and they have successfully lobbied for Senate approval of an additional $60 million for education and training vouchers, to further help older youths leaving foster care; the bill is now awaiting House approval.

Since 2000, youth between the ages of 18 and 21 who have left foster care at age 16 or older are eligible for housing assistance through HUD’s Family Unification Program (FUP). Applicants must be referred and certified by a local child welfare agency. The vouchers are limited to 18 months, and the referring agency commits to providing aftercare to youths who obtain housing using a voucher. The list of FUP awardees can be viewed at www.cwla.org.

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