There are presently over 500,000 children and youth in the Foster Care System, many of whom experience situations that change frequently and often include abuse and neglect from an early age.
At the age of 18 years old, approximately 24,000 teenagers age out of Foster Care System and are expected to re-locate and continue their lives on their own. Almost half have not yet graduated high school, yet often-times these teens find themselves without a place to live, transportation or jobs to survive. Most do not possess the skills to thrive on their own and are unable to support themselves.
By helping to make the “aging out” process smoother, we are preventing these youth from turning to unhealthy and even dangerous alternatives out of desperation. Supporting these young people through their journey to adulthood is a top priority for the Seeds of Life Foundation, as we work to break and prevent the pattern of domestic violence, abuse and neglect for our future generations.
The children that are part of the Foster Care System have often already faced multiple hardships as neglect, abuse, violence, learning disabilities, and abandonment. The majority of foster children have difficulties with school, with almost fifty percent dropping out of school after exiting the Foster Care System. Statistics show that under 3% of foster children aging out of the system graduate from College, even though over 70% express a desire to do so.
Many things have a compounding effect that lead to their inability to thrive – lack of financial and social skills, lacking training and work experience, along with the lack of support from caring adults and the resources to provide for even their most basic needs.
After reaching the age of 18 years of age, more than 26% of children will become instantly homeless.
National studies have shown that within three (3) years of leaving foster care at age 18:
This reality is further complicated when compounded by the experience of domestic violence, abuse or neglect while these young people were living with their families or in Foster Care.
These shocking numbers drive the Seeds of Life Foundation to support youth aging out of the foster system, to make sure they have successful transitions into the real world; as well as advocating the importance of adoption and responsible foster parenting.
Donate School Supplies
Contribute Graduation Gifts
Donate and/or Participate in one of our many Family events and Holiday Parties
Provide transport to/from Banks (to open bank accounts), Doctor Appointments, Job Interviews
Provide transitional and/or low-cost housing
Contribute household items and/or furnishings to help set up their first homes
Donate Clothing and/or Hygiene Products
Become a Mentor through our
Become a School Tutor through our
Become a Teacher or Contribute your Expertise – Basic Life Skills: Health, Nutrition, Cooking, Finances
Contribute your Expertise through Vocation Training
Provide employment opportunities
Donate vehicles
Become a Speaker or Advocate
Provide valuable Television or Radio airtime or Publication Space
Donate to our Youth Educational Assistance Fund
Be a friend, willing to listen and help. You can make a difference with your financial contribution or by becoming a volunteer in any of our Programs or Committees.
CONTACT US
(786) 641-5400
SHARE LOVE
SEEDS OF LIFE FOUNDATION
The Seeds of Life Foundation is a registered 501 (c) 3 Non-Profit organization.
Copyright © 2020 Seeds of Life Foundation All Rights Reserved