Don't Abandon Foster Kids at Age 18

  • by: Care2.com
  • recipient: Governor Schwarzenegger
In California, kids in the foster care system "age out" at 18. But kids whose support is extended from 18 to 21 are:

* 200 percent more likely to be working towards completion of a high school diploma
* 300 percent more likely to enroll in college
* 65 percent less likely to be arrested

That's why California Assembly Bill 12 is necessary. The bill would extend the "age out" to 21, and be a positive, effective investment in these young people.

A 2009 study found that for every $1 invested in policy like this, there is a $2.41 return on investment. And more importantly, and graduates of the foster care program deserve a fair chance at stability and success.

Urge Governor Schwarzenegger to sign AB 12 into law.
Dear Governor Schwarzenegger,

I'm writing to urge you to sign Assembly Bill 12 into law. By extending public funds to foster care graduates who need support until age 21, the bill will prevent homelessness and incarceration. A five-year longitudinal study showed that foster teens who receive government support after age 18 were 200% more likely to be working towards completion of a high school diploma, 300% more likely to be enrolled in college, and 65% less likely to have been arrested.

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In addition, the bill will improve the quality of the relative caregiver programs and therefore offer more children the stability that comes from living with extended family. Finally, it will be a positive and effective investment in the young generation; a 2009 study found that for every $1 invested in policy like this, there is a $2.41 return on investment.
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