Where to Find Resources for Foster Youth in California
Here at AFS, we recently put together a guide highlighting key resources for foster youth in California – and for others in the state in need of support and resources. You can check it out here: https://www.afs4kids.org/resources/
On this page, you can find resources on the following:
- State-level resources, including for emotional and mental health.
- County resources for those living in the Bay Area or Greater Sacramento region.
- Resources for those seeking housing, employment, and/or substance abuse treatment.
- Specific resources for transition-aged youth in or out of foster care.
Here at AFS, we recently put together a guide highlighting key resources for foster youth in California – and for others in the state in need of support and resources. You can check it out here: https://www.afs4kids.org/resources/
For foster youth seeking educational resources, such as details around financial aid or campus support, a great place to start is the State of California’s Foster Youth Education Resource Hub: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/california-foster-youth-education-resource-hub
Understanding the Unique Circumstances of Youth Involved in the Child Welfare System
Current and former foster youth face particular hardships and challenges, which require solutions focused on the unique needs of this population. Consider these statistics:
- By the time they turn 24, only about half of all former foster youth nationwide will be gainfully employed.
- Just 3% of all former foster youth in the U.S eventually get a college degree, even though 70% of foster youth say they would like to attend college.
- A quarter of all former foster youth suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Around 70% of female former foster youth become pregnant at some point before they turn 21.
- Around one in five foster youth find themselves without a permanent home when they “age out” of foster care.
In addition, while 84% of high school students statewide graduate from high school, only 56% of California foster youth do too. And, compared to their peers, young men in California who were in foster care are 82% more likely to find themselves without a home to live in.
This is why AFS has been singularly focused on providing thoughtful, informed family services, foster care, adoption, and mental health services throughout Northern California for over 45 years.
To check out our list of key resources for current and former California foster youth, head here: https://www.afs4kids.org/resources/
Are there any key resources missing from our Resources page? If you know of any options or have any suggestions, please let us know! You can reach AFS by phone at (707) 576-7700 or via email at info@afs4kids.org.
