Maricopa County is helping foster youth transition into adulthood with a new housing initiative. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, has agreed to come together and help young adults aging out of foster care.

The Foster Youth to Independence Initiative

Housing instability and homelessness is a huge issue for youth aging out of the foster care system. In Arizona foster youth age out of the system when they turn 18.

Therefore, the agencies partnered to develop the program called Foster Youth to Independence Initiative. The intention of the program is to help youth aging out of the system find sustainable housing. Sheriff Paul Penzone, announced the program at a press conference this yesterday.

How the Foster Youth to Independence Initiative Works

The program falls under HUD and provides housing vouchers to young adults to help with the cost of renting an apartment. HUD Regional Administrator, Chris Patterson said that the initiative is the first in many expanding efforts to help foster youth transition out of care.

“I was in the foster system as a youth, and I know how important it is to find places for foster kids to find stable ground once they become adults,” Patterson said. “These vouchers demonstrate HUD’S commitment to making sure these young people will have homes to invite people into, and it gives them a sense of identity.”

Getting Assistance

For those who live in Arizona and are looking for assistance, the HUD website offers more information on resources. The Foster Youth to Independence Initiative is a wonderful way to help foster youth while they make strides towards adulthood. There is a nationwide push to help young people under the age of 25 as they age out of the system. Above all, it will help decrease the percentage of homeless youth across the nation.