What Happens When Foster Care Ends—But Addiction Doesn’t?

Every year, thousands of young adults leave foster care and step into adulthood, often without the safety net most of us take for granted. For many, this transition is overwhelming. One challenge looms larger than most: addiction and the battle of recovery.

Why Are Youth Aging Out of Foster Care at Higher Risk?

The truth is, many of these young adults have endured trauma: abuse, neglect, and years of instability. These painful experiences can lead to mental health struggles like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. In fact, 1 in 4 youth aging out of foster care live with PTSD, twice the rate of U.S. war veterans.

When emotional wounds go untreated, substances can become a way to cope.

Unfortunately, addiction doesn’t disappear when foster care ends. Without access to consistent therapy, safe housing, and a strong support system, recovery can feel out of reach.

The Barriers to Getting Help

Even when they want help, former foster youth often face steep barriers:

• Limited access to treatment without insurance or financial stability.

• Lack of transportation to recovery programs or counseling.

• No family safety net to lean on during relapse or crisis.

How We Help Youth on the Road to Recovery

Our mission is to make sure no young adult aging out of foster care faces this battle alone. We:

• Connect them to treatment programs and mental health resources.

• Help secure safe housing to support long-term stability.

• Provide encouragement and guidance through every step of recovery.

Addiction is a heavy burden, but recovery is possible with the right support. And together, we can create pathways to healing and hope.