Healing the Harm: Reparations for Former Foster Youth

Thousands of children entered foster care through no fault of their own. Many experienced multiple placements, separation from siblings, educational disruption, emotional trauma, abuse, homelessness, and lifelong barriers to success. While the government assumed responsibility for their care, too many left the system without the support needed to thrive.

We call upon Congress, state legislatures, and child welfare agencies to establish a reparations and support program for former foster youth. This program should include financial compensation, housing assistance, educational opportunities, mental health services, and economic development programs to address the long-term impacts of foster care.

Former foster youth deserve more than survival—they deserve healing, opportunity, and justice.

By signing this petition, we urge policymakers to recognize the lasting effects of foster care involvement and invest in meaningful reparative measures.