Young people in and aging out of foster care have been hit hard by COVID-19. Without family to turn to, young people should have access to support and services so they can make it through this crisis healthy and ready to thrive. Congress should provide this assistance to young people by increasing Chafee funds by $500 million to meet their immediate needs and making sure young people can stay safe and housed in extended foster care.
While several states have taken action to respond to the needs of older youth in foster care, the scope of the problem and need to reach youth in every state requires federal action. We ask you take action to ensure their safety and well-being in the next COVID-19 relief bill. Congress have the opportunity to provide a real safety net for these young people, who previously looked to the government as the only parent they had.
Here is what you can do to take actions: 1) Sign on to the letter to ask Congress to provide support to older youth in and leaving foster care. and 2) Contact your Members of Congress to make sure resources for older youth are included in the next COVID-19 relief bill. For more information, visit CWLA Action Center.
