Nurturing Youth as They Age Out of Foster Care

More than 4,800 children will age out of foster care in Ohio over the next five years. Those young adults often face risks greater than their peers – experts say that as many as 25% of youth who leave foster care become incarcerated within two years.

To help support this population in Appalachian Ohio, a group of partners announced on January 15 a $7.3 million comprehensive transitional housing and training center to support youth as they age out of the foster care system.

“This is an important day for Ohio’s youth, especially those navigating the foster care system,” said Randy Leite, PhD, executive director of the Appalachian Children Coalition. “Today’s project launch represents another step toward supporting Appalachian youth exactly where they are now and setting them up for future success right here at home.

Along with the Appalachian Children Coalition, other partners include Nationwide Children’s Hospital, FosterHub and the State of Ohio. The center is funded by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s landmark investment in Ohio’s Appalachian communities.

 The new center will focus on two vital components meant to help youth thrive:

• Transitional housing. The new center will feature 10 apartments meant for youth ages 18 and older to live in for up to six months while working toward permanent housing with job training, a teaching kitchen, laundry services and primary care and behavioral health services through Hocking Valley Community Hospital and more.

• Workforce training. Local businesses and organizations have committed to creating apprenticeships for those living at the center. Partner organizations will work with youth to ensure they are enrolled in government assistance programs along with creating training programs that will teach youth key independent living skills.

Read more about the new center here. 

Published January 2025