During this last legislative session, $2,247,000 was approved for the 06-07 biennium to provide funding to programs that help youth either transition out of foster care or that prevent homelessness among youth who have aged out.
Many youth programs have not received increased support since much of their funding was cut in 2003. 36 beds for youth and many staff positions were lost when the cuts went into effect. This Request for Proposals (RFP) is a great way to further the work of helping youth transition into adulthood.
“I think it’s a great step in the right direction for homeless youth funding. I’m hoping that we can expand on this funding after it’s proven to be successful and cost effective,” said Beth Holger, from the Child Safety Division of DHS.
The funding is specifically targeted towards youth ages 16 to 18 who are still in foster care, or for youth ages 18 to 21 who have recently aged out. In 2002, there were 1,401 youth who aged out of foster care, and 5,872 youth ages 16 to 19 who were in foster care.
The funding will provide supportive services mainly through independent living skills programs and case management. The RFP is targeted for service providers only, and it will be released in November 2005.
For more information, contact Beth Holger at Beth.Holger@state.mn.us or (651) 297-3634.
Also, visit Minnesota Department of Human Services for further information on foster care.