A Safe Step Up and Forward

Support for foster and systems-impacted youth

South LA

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Every year, nearly 1,000 young people between the ages of 18-21 age out of the Los Angeles’ foster care system. Compared to youth in stable environments, these young adults face severe disadvantage, encountering a substantially higher risks of homelessness and unemployment. This particular population has difficulty obtaining and maintaining housing as well as employment sufficient to pay rent. The challenges they face in transitioning to independence include constant placement changes, educational setbacks, and a lack of strong support networks. Statistics paint a stark picture: only about 50% of foster youth graduate from high school, a mere 5% to 10% pursue higher education, and fewer than 3% ultimately earn a college degree. By the age of 24, just half of these youth achieve stable employment.

This grant will support our program in meeting the needs of youth aging out and transitioning from foster care to independent living.
Housing: We will provide safe, well-maintained independent support housing for a minimum of four and up to eight homeless youth. Each residence will be fully furnished and equipped with essential household items.
Education: Our program offers comprehensive educational support tailored to individual needs, which includes guidance with college enrollment, securing financial aid, selecting classes, and accessing work-study opportunities. For those without a high school diploma, we will facilitate enrollment in adult education programs to achieve a high school diploma or GED.
Employment Training: Recognizing the importance of self-sufficiency, we require all participants to seek employment. We will deliver training on completing online job applications and crafting strong resumes and cover letters that emphasize their required skill sets. Additionally, each participant will receive personalized job interview coaching to maximize their employment prospects.
Life Skills: To empower youth to function independently and effectively in society, we will offer classes focused on essential life skills. Topics will include behavioral management, conflict resolution, effective communication, socialization techniques, goal setting and achievement, time management, and financial literacy.
Services provided at Rakestraw Center in Florence-Firestone-SPA 6.

This program will enrich and enhance the lives of those who participate and and actively engage. These young adults will have hope for a brighter future and pride within themselves. By bridging the gap in services to foster youth, they will have a chance at becoming self-sufficient and contributing to their city by give back to those in the same situation.
Our vision is to attain different property sites to service more foster youth with housing. The stability of housing and employment will assist in the reduction of youth homelessness. It will also deter mischievous and dangerous activities which may have harsh consequences. Without the housing support, all other services will continue to be provided. LA County benefits by having young people engaged and on the right path to accomplishing something positive such as being a part of the other 50% who maintain jobs and the 10% who go to college and the 3% who earn a college degree.