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In the state of Texas, youths age out of the foster care system at the age of 18. Roughly 1,200 foster youth age out of foster care each year.
Studies show that aged out foster children are at higher risk for poverty, homelessness, incarceration, teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and human trafficking.
Gap between government services offered and aged-out foster youth using these services
In this paper, I will argue for—
A slight restructure of the foster care program, i.e., an automatic admission into a supervised independent living program once foster youth age out of the system.
I. Further background on Texas's aged-out foster youth
II. Systemic restructure
III. Implications on Texas's aged-out foster youth
Studies show that 18-21 year old foster youths who aged out of the system had worse outcomes compared to their peers.
Over half (57%) of Texas aged out foster youth were unemployed.
Over a quarter (27%) lacked a high school diploma.
Over a quarter (28%) lacked stable housing
Over a third (37%) became young parents.
Aged out foster youth are not utilizing the resources available to them because they are disconnected from these resources and opportunities
Studies show they develop self-sabotaging and dysfunctional strategies to deal with the challenges of adulthood.
- distancing themselves
- engaging in risky activities
- returning to abusive family
- learning to live day by day
Extended Foster Care
Independent Supervised Living
Trial Independence- leave for a six-month period with the option to return
MAIN ARGUMENT-
A slight restructure of the foster care program, i.e., an automatic admission into a supervised independent living program once foster youth age out of the system.
Automatically opt-in unless the youth actively chooses to opt-out
Same requirements as currently in place, with the exception of the application process— automatic opt-in v. automatic opt-out
According to the Child Protective Services Foster Care Report: