Independent Living Services

Home / Child & Family / Independent Living Services

https://judsoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cropped-judson-icon.png

Empowering Youth

to Thrive in Transition

Purple PW

What happens to youth when they “age out” of foster care?

In Michigan, around 575 young adults age out of foster care each year, often with no guidance or resources. Growing up is challenging enough, but for these individuals, the struggle is compounded by isolation, a lack of supportive adults, and no clear direction. Through no fault of their own, this overlooked group faces alarming rates of mental health issues, homelessness, and incarceration.

Through unwavering care and stready support, we can change the statistics for young people!

Our team works with foster parents and host providers in the community to offer support to youth ages 16-21 in order to help them prepare for life as a young adult. Our services empower youth to grow, mature and learn to live independently as adults.
Services offered include:

  • Job Training
  • Housing Assistance
  • Mentoring
  • Health Services
  • Independent Living Skills
Talking,To,My,Sister,Is,All,The,Therapy,I,Need.
judson-icon

FAQ

Youth can be referred to our Independent Living program by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS), the courts, or private agencies.

Any worker or agency with questions or wanting to refer a youth can fill out the contact form below or contact Courtney Carter, IL Supervisor at courtney_carter@childsafemichigan.org.

You can support youth aging out by:

  1. Serving as a Host Provider
    • "Renting" a room to a youth aging out of foster care and serving as a supportive adult
  2. Donate to Support the Independent Living Services Offered
    1. Click HERE to Donate today!
  3. Donate In-Kind Items to Support the Tangible Needs of Youth

Community Host providers are not only committing to welcome a young person into their home but to be a supportive presence in their lives. 

Our Independent Living Hosts offer assistance that supports the strengths, goals and independence of the youth in their home. 

Support could look like offering assistance in: 

  • Budgeting and Finance
  • Career and Employment
  • Educational Planning
  • Connecting to Community Resources
  • Building Health Relationships
  • Securing Stable Housing
  • Improving Mental Wellness
pinwheel-bottom

Let's Get Started!

Contact us today for additional information!

Our team is here to answer your questions and connect you to the care you or a loved one need.