Organizations Donate Tech. To Foster Youth

FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP) — Two southwest Florida organizations are partnering up to give computers to 50 teens who have aged out of foster care so that they can continue with their educations.

The Children’s Network of Southwest Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University announced the donations this week.

Many youths leave foster care each year without a permanent family to help them transition into adulthood. Studies show that many struggle to get their high school diploma and end up homeless.

The state’s Independent Living Program gives monthly stipends to help nearly 4,000 youths, but those stipends may take a hit in this year’s state budget. Lawmakers have proposed nearly $12 million in program cuts.

Child advocates say foster care workers should be held accountable for better preparing the youths for adulthood.

Source: Associated Press