As young people transition out of the foster youth system, they face a heightened risk of homelessness. Each year, more than 1,140 youth exit foster care in LA County, with 20 to 40 percent experiencing housing instability or homelessness soon after.
The recent report by Abt Global summarizes existing services and programs in LA County and synthesizes insights from interviews with service providers, system administrators, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness to highlight current system strengths and identify opportunities for improvement to prevent homelessness among foster youth. Interviews highlight five practices that are helping youth maintain housing stability as they leave care: individualized services, a focus on quality over quantity, skilled and representative staff, flexibility, and meaningful financial support.
The report also includes key recommendations for policy, practice and program improvements.