California’s State Senate and Assembly Pass $35 Million Program to Support Youth Aging Out of Foster Care
California’s State Senate and Assembly Pass $35 Million Program to Support Youth Aging Out of Foster Care
California’s state Senate and Assembly pass a $35 million program to provide a universal basic income for youth aging out of foster care. Governor Gavin Newson approved the bill last Friday, making it the first state wide program of its kind.
This transitional support for those aging out of foster care provides a safety net that many have found in their families.
Life Changing Support for Aging Out Foster Youth
Legislative analysts estimate that the taxpayer-funded program will serve between 2,400 to 2,500 youth exiting the California foster care system.
Currently, the estimated monthly aid will range between $500 to $1,000 a month. Local governments and organizations help determine how much aid to give participants. The rationale is that this income will help reduce and prevent homelessness, educational delays and incarceration amoung former foster youth.
Priority for these benefits is given to pregnant people as well as low-income Californians.
The Success of Universal Income Programs
According to the Associated Press, programs like this have started in New Orleans, Louisiana; Los Angeles and Oakland, California; Tacoma, Washington; and Gainesville, Florida.
Last year we reported on the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors approval of a universal basic income pilot plan benefiting foster youth. The plan helps former foster youth between the ages of 21 to 24. Each month participants recieve stipens of $1,000 for up to a year.
State Senator Dave Cortese, the Santa Clara County supervisor who spearheaded the effort, introduced Senate Bill 739, which was combined with the governor’s universal basic income proposal.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, we are grateful to hear about these additional benefits for foster youth across California. Aging out of the foster care system is a difficult transition. This is an excellent start to the change we hope to see nationwide.
To help foster youth in your area, join us here.
