hope

/hōp/

noun a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen, a feeling of trust.

Circumstances that thrust children into the foster system are many, and the journey is not always smooth. Data shows that in Texas, 1200 youth age out of the foster system yearly. The number is relatively small, however 25 % go straight to homelessness, 33 % become parents, 50% are unemployed. These outcomes bring with them trauma, addiction, trafficking, criminal behaviors, and mental disorders. The foster system has been steady trying to improve itself, legislation to close gaps and bring down barriers has been presented and defeated. There are many organizations and agencies that provide necessary services that help this very vulnerable population, and there are a few youth group home type housing options, private placements ( if available ), with a long list of requirements. We can do better, we should be doing better !

Let's bring some hope in to the lives of those who have no connection once they age out of foster care. They need stability in their living environment, emotional support and guidance, encouragement to find a creative outlet that will support healing, and to know that they are not alone.

source :;Texas Cares for Children website / April 28, 2020 child protection blog