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April 25, 2008 |
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A study of former foster youths in three Midwestern states found foster youths leaving the system at age 18:
- Were three times more likely than their peers who had not been in foster care to be unemployed or not in school.
- Were twice as likely to be unable to pay their rent.
- Fewer than half had bank accounts.
- Thirty percent of males and 11 percent of females had been incarcerated at least once after leaving foster care.
A survey of 237 Michigan foster youths ages 18 to 23 found similar outcomes.
- Just 12 percent worked full time.
- Just 36 percent worked part-time.
- More than half relied on public assistance.
- Forty percent said they were either homeless or had no stable housing.
The good news is that some of these foster youths are finding their voices.
Recently, 18 youth boards in 28 counties presented to the Michigan Legislature a report outlining 10 priorities to guide state policies and services for foster youths soon to leave care.
This report evaluates progress on youth boards' original 15 recommendations issued in 2005.
The report asks the Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) and Michigan courts to continue working on issues critical to young adults who will soon leave or recently left foster care
Youths want to see more resources devoted to preserving families through supports that allow them to remain safely with their birth parents. If they must be removed from home, they want a "Sibling Bill of Rights" that allows them to be placed with their siblings or have structured contact with them. Youths also want a say in decisions made about their placement.
Supports to help youths learn to drive and obtain a driver's license, apply for higher education, financial aid and obtain life skills such as financial planning are critical to making the transition from foster youth to productive adult.
Niles Daily Star editorial, 4.14.08
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