The Ohio Legislature has passed a bill that would extend the age for foster care benefits through age 21. According to the Ohio Fostering Connection by age 19--that's one year after foster care teens age out--an esimated
53 percent have experienced homelessness, 14 percent have unplanned pregnancies, 36 percent have been incarcerated. And they're more likely to be victims of sex trafficking. The societal costs, say foster care advocates and legislators from both parties, are enormous.
Kate Lodge, Project Director, A Place 4 Me, YWCA of Greater Cleveland
Danielle Green-Welch, Youth Permanency and Transition Team, Coordinator, Cuyahoga Department Job & Family Services
Mark Mecum, Executive Director of Ohio Association of Child Caring Agencies, Chair, Ohio Fostering Connections