Few parents cut ties immediately and irrevocably the moment that their child comes of age. But once a foster child reaches the age of 18, the system is no longer obligated to provide for them.

Lisa Dickson, sunshinegirlonarainyday.com

THE FACTS…

1. In 2005, more than 24,000 kids were emancipated from the foster care system because they turned 18 (a 41% increase since 1998)

2. Studies have found that such teens are less likely to finish high school, and are more likely to go to prison, get pregnant, or become homeless.

3. Census data shows that fewer than 3% earn college degrees, compared with 28% of the regular population.

4. Life Skills Training offers subsidized housing and training in five key areas: Education, employment, money and credit management, consumer skills, & mentoring.

The Kirpa Center - Life Skills Training is a non-profit 501(c)(3) Transitional Independent Living Program (TILP) that helps youth aging out of the foster care (ages 17-21) make a successful transition to responsible, independent adulthood.