FYI celebrates 100th foster youth served

Local nonprofit Fostering Youth Independence (FYI) is celebrating its 100th youth service by launching a “100 for 100” campaign asking 100 donors to support their emergency fund for local foster children.

“FYI’s foster children are economically disadvantaged and do not have the resources to overcome financial hardship,” said Carolyn Olsen, director and co-founder of FYI. “Without family support, unexpected car repairs or other unforeseen expenses can ruin a student’s education plans. The transition from COVID-19 offers many opportunities to serve our youth more effectively, but it also brings challenges. ”

She said that after the COVID-19 relief programs end, the youth will face financial hardships affecting their housing, schoolwork and daily life, needs that can only be met through FYI’s Emergency Relief Fund.

FYI’s Emergency Relief Fund recently paid for a bed, refrigerators, tuition, books, laptops, car payments and insurance, rental assistance, emergency transportation, household items, bike repairs, and groceries. Olsen added that not only is this need expected to continue throughout the summer, but it could also rise in late September if some of the youths lose their temporary homes.

“We are grateful that the transition housing payments for youth development have been extended to the end of September so that our young people can stay in their homes for the time being,” said Olsen, “but young people over 21 will lose this benefit at this point, which” increases the pressure and worried about where they live and how they will pay for it.

“So we are using this milestone of 100 youth support to raise awareness of our needs and ask that 100 people donate to the FYI Emergency Fund, which is vital in helping young people in difficult financial times,” added she added.

The organization’s milestone was reached last month, four years since FYI was founded. Since then, they have been helping Santa Clarita’s foster children in transition (aged 16 to 25)

resources needed as they exit the care system and complete post-secondary education to prepare to become successful, independent adults.

COVID-19 had exacerbated the challenges that foster children are already facing. Many FYI youth became unemployed and most had difficulty transitioning to online learning. FYI has supported these youngsters in a variety of ways and is a family for those who don’t have one. FYI’s volunteer allies and staff have also given emotional support to teenagers who felt particularly alone during this time.

“We know that many of our teenagers will continue to face challenges even after the COVID restrictions are overcome, and FYI exists to support and encourage them. We are always so grateful for the generosity of our community and we thank everyone who can participate in our ‘100 for 100’ campaign, ”said Olsen.

Donations can be submitted by visiting www.fyifosteryouth.org or, alternatively, contact FYI at 661-360-1500.

source https://collegeeducationnewsllc.com/fyi-celebrates-100th-foster-youth-served/