Where Foster Care and Homelessness Intersect
May is National Foster Care Month, and on May 7 we observed National Foster Care Day. While not all foster youth experience will experience homelessness or housing insecurity, studies show that former foster youth are much more susceptible. As the local leader in preventing homelessness, we understand the importance of acknowledging the intersection foster care and youth homelessness.
Foster youth who are already coping with the trauma of family instability, often find themselves at risk for homelessness as they transition out of the foster care system. Recent studies reveal a distressing reality: a significant proportion of former foster youth experience homelessness shortly after leaving the foster care system. Estimates range from 25% up to 50% or more in some studies. These statistics highlight the vulnerability of foster youth transitioning into adulthood emphasizing the need for better support systems.
To effectively address youth homelessness, it is important to understand its underlying, cyclical causes, especially as they intersect with the foster care system. The cycle of instability begins long before youth age out of foster care, stemming from uncertain environments, inadequate support, and scarce resources that are rarely tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, the trauma endured during their time spent in foster care can exacerbate existing issues.
There is hope and help available in our Continuum of Care (CoC) which includes access to:
· Housing programs
· Job training and employment opportunities
· Mental health resources
· Programs designed to foster resilience and self-sufficiency
At Threshold CoC, we regularly convene a Youth Action Board that serves as a pillar of support for current and formerly unhoused youth. This also provides an opportunity for youth to actively steer our work in the community while we continue to advocate for housing-first policies.
Breaking the cycle of homelessness among foster youth requires a collaborative approach at all levels. This includes policymakers working to reform the foster care system to better support transitioning youth, philanthropic organizations committed to funding homelessness prevention work, and community-based organizations providing vital services. Only through a collective effort can we construct a safety net ensuring foster youth no longer fall through the cracks.
The intersection of foster youth and homelessness serves as a reminder of systemic shortcomings that perpetuate cycles of poverty and instability. As the leader of the local CoC, we remain steadfast in our commitment to preventing homelessness which MUST include advocating for foster youth. Together, we can change the cycle of homelessness and create a better future for all.
If you or a neighbor are facing housing instability, please connect with one of our Access Points and CoC organizations in our community. Our CoC’s network of resources helps prevent individuals and families from facing housing insecurity and gain access to safe, quality housing.
Our CoC Partners at Project Everlast and Youth Emergency Services provide services specifically for youth and young people in our community.
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