What is "Aging Out" of Foster Care?

Approximately 24,000 American teenagers in foster care turn 18 years old each year. Many still in high school, these teens find themselves in need of jobs, a place to live, and a means of transportation to survive.

National studies have shown that within two to four years of leaving foster care at age 18:

• 40% were homeless

• 40% were receiving public assistance or were incarcerated

• 40% experienced drug or alcohol abuse

• 46% had not finished high school

• 51% were unemployed

• 84% became parents

It’s these shocking numbers that drive Forever Family to continue to, not only help children get adopted by loving families, but also to shine a light on youth that age out of the foster system without a loving family.

Help Teens Aging Out of Foster Care

Without the love and support of a family to fall back on, many teens who aged out of foster care find themselves struggling to succeed on their own. However, there are multiple ways you can help these young adults:

• Purchase graduation gifts and items to help set up their first homes

• Become a mentor

• Provide employment opportunities

• Donate vehicles

• Provide low-cost housing

• Donate funds to help with emergency needs