Options for Foster Teens

Foster care is a little more complex than the kids come into care and they either have reunification with their parents or termination of parents tal rights. There are many other options for kids, especially when they are teenagers.

When it becomes apparent that kids will not be going home before they age out alternate plans are made. It used to be called long term foster care, now called APPLA, another planned permanent living arrangement. Independent living is the goal but so hard for kids who age out to maintain without support. Teens can remain in care to keep support when they hit 18 but so many are tired of the system and sign themselves out. The outcome for kids who age out is not very good.

Before our teen came to our home she was living in the children’s home expecting to age out under APPLA with plans to go to college. In her own words she accepted that because she thought no one would want her. It took some adjustments but she is doing great in our home. She and Larissa share a room and have a great relationship. She wants to be a part of our family. We are hoping to adopt her but recognize that time is against us. Either way she knows that she can stay in our home as long as she need to.