© 2024 Ideastream Public Media

1375 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115
(216) 916-6100 | (877) 399-3307

WKSU is a public media service licensed to Kent State University and operated by Ideastream Public Media.
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Ohio Moves to Extend Foster Care Benefits to Age 21

Photo Credit: Brian Bull, Ideastream
Photo Credit: Brian Bull, Ideastream

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