South Florida Today featured a segment that many people are unaware of.  Teens that are aging out of the foster care system can face many obstacles and challenges. With the struggling economy there were many concerns about whether these teens would be able to celebrate.   However this past holiday season the generosity of many people helped them celebrate with many wonderful gifts that will help them transition as well as a fantastic holiday party! (Watch video below).

What is "Aging-Out"?

Each year approximately 24,000 American teenagers turn 18 in foster care and head out into the world alone. Still in high school, they must find a job, a place to live and transportation. Forever Family has made the plight of these 'aging out' youth a priority and is working to change the way these young people are viewed and supported.

National studies show that within 2-4 years of leaving foster care at age 18:

51% were unemployed
40% were homeless
40% were receiving public assistance or incarcerated
84% became parents
46% did not finish high school
40% experienced drug or alcohol abuse

Source: Forever Family

For more information on how you can help, visit ChildNet.us today.  In Broward County every year, several hundred children enter the child welfare system due to abuse, abandonment or neglect. As the local Community Based Care lead agency, ChildNet manages the local system of services and supports for Broward's most vulnerable children. Our mission is to protect Broward's abused, abandoned and neglected children, to ensure their safety and to promptly provide them with a loving home.

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Be inspired - watch the video below!