New programs are launching in four jurisdictions across the country to provide comprehensive support to young people turning 18 in foster care – one of the groups hit hardest by the impact of the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID-19 Articles
Youth Villages holding Backpack Heroes campaign
Youth Villages, which offers services in the Boston area from its Woburn office, is holding its annual Backpack Heroes campaign.
How does it feel to “age out” of foster care?
Every year, approximately 20,000 young people turn 18 in child welfare systems without ever being reunited with their biological family. Ary, a young woman receiving help in Youth Villages Oklahoma’s LifeSet program experienced the ups and downs of that big birthday.
Kentucky launches new program for young people transitioning from foster care
The Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS), an agency of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), is launching a new program this month to help young people who reach adulthood in foster care, one of the groups the most impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.
Be a hero by providing Youth Villages with Backpacks for kids going back to school
The new school year is approaching, which means our youth are in need of Backpack Heroes. Learn more about this initiative and how to donate in this interview with Local 24.
Youth Villages addressing the growing need for foster families amid the coronavirus pandemic
“We are still being innovative and creative…” said Portia Williams, foster parent trainer with Youth Villages. WREG Channel 3 spoke with Williams and the Hatten family about the need for foster care now more than ever.
Return to school could present mental health challenges for students
Dr. Justin Dodson of Youth Villages addresses possible mental health challenges as children face a new normal with the reopening of schools this fall.
Middle Tennessee COVID-19 Updates
COVID-19 forced Youth Villages to make quick changes to programming in early March, but we’re continuing to meet the needs of our group home residents, children, families and young people during the pandemic.
New Priorities: Ian’s story
Stealing, drugs, truancy, no father growing up… Ian was headed in the wrong direction fast. With his life spiraling out of control, he was referred to Youth Villages’ MST-EA program.
How to support LGBTQ youth
June is Pride month, a time designated to celebrate the contributions of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) members of our community. Focusing on inclusion and support at home is critical for all children and adolescents but especially for those who identify as LGBTQ. One of our core values at Youth Villages reflects the importance of a supportive household: Children are raised best by their families. When at all possible, LGBTQ children belong with their families.