Purposes of the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program 624-10-10

(9/15/06 ML 3048)

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Youth aging out of foster care are in unique and often difficult position. Some youth have been in foster care for a number of years. At the age of 18, they find themselves alone, without the supports provided by the child welfare system. They are expected to live on their own, go to school hold down jobs, pay rent and bills, find medical care, and attend to all of their other needs at a time when young people who have not been in foster care are still under the protective care of their parents.  Far too many former foster youth find themselves without adequate supports and permanent connections; facing homelessness, unemployment, single parenthood, mental health/addiction issues, and legal difficulties. The Foster Care System’s commitment to foster youth cannot end when they are discharged from foster care. The overall purpose of the Chafee Foster Care Independence Program is to improve the lives of youth aging out of foster care.