The foster care system is a great way for kids who do not have a safe or supportive home environment to get the care and attention they need, either on a short- or long-term basis. But have you ever thought about what happens to these children when they turn 18 and are no longer under the foster care program? Unfortunately, only a small percentage of these kids go off to college  – many have trouble finding employment to provide for themselves. This is why the transitional housing programs California offers are so important.

A Path to Homelessness

It’s a sad reality that many former foster children wind up homeless shortly after aging out of the foster care system. This should not be the case. The goal of the foster system is to provide a better life for these kids, but that goal is not achieved if the improvement in their life is only temporary. The transitional housing programs California has available are designed to provide a ‘softer landing’ in adult life for these young people, giving them time to adjust and figure out how to make it on their own.

Open Up Doors

Even for foster children who don’t wind up homeless after turning 18, the options for their future might be rather limited. For instance, if a former foster child realizes he or she needs to quickly find a way to pay bills, the only choice may be low-wage employment that allows them to get by. That’s okay for the short term, but it doesn’t open up many possibilities down the line. With the transitional housing programs California provides, it’s easier for these individuals to consider various options and carve out a brighter future.

Looking For Transitional Housing Programs In California?

If you are interested in learning more about transitional housing for former foster youth, contact Children First Foster Family Agency or apply to become a resource parent.

Children First FFA is a private, non-profit organization in Northern California that is dedicated to helping change lives by providing a safe place for children to heal in a culture of love, acceptance, and consistency.