Journalist: Anne Stanton
Date: May 5, 2008
Summary: May in National Foster Care Month. This article reports on the activities of a program designed to assist foster children. Statistics show that approximately 513,000 children are placed in foster care as a result of child abuse or neglect, or family crises. The article reviews the efforts of a program titled the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative (MYOI). The program establishes an account for foster care youth that is matched dollar-for-dollar for expenses such as a car or college tuition. The program also provides assistance with applying for college and health insurance, and offers classes in financial literacy.
Relevance: Social workers are likely to work with children in foster care and foster parents. Information about effective programs that assist this population can be helpful.
Questions:
1. At what age do children “age out” of the foster care system?
2. What age are participants who are eligible for the MYOI program?
3. What types of services do volunteers provide to assist children who are “aging out”?
4. Within two years after leaving foster care placement, what percentage of children become homeless?
5. Within two years after leaving foster care placement, what percentage of the girls become pregnant?
6. What is the one “downfall” of the MYOI program?
7. What evidence was used to demonstrate that the MYOI program is effective?
8. What type of information would you need in order to replicate the MYOI program in your community?
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