Virus or not, classes are starting for ILYA (Independent Living for Young Adults) youth going on to college, technical school or the military after graduating high school this year. ILYA’s Student Care Package project was created to support these young people who now are expected to be “on their own” after aging out of foster care.
Can you imagine taking that big step without the support of a family and sometimes even having a family undermining your efforts and confidence? ILYA’s project is designed to give support to these youth with “care packages” that show them someone is thinking of them and cares about their success. Care packages can include goodies, snacks, personal care items, school supplies, basic food needs or as simple as a gift card.
We need volunteers who are willing to send a “care package” 4 times during the academic year to help a youth get through the tough times particularly during exams and approaching holidays with no family. Packages don’t need to be expensive and can be delivered to the youth rather than mailing if that’s a concern.
Deb Griffin is managing the project this year with the support of Pauline Koch (who is not a church member but a dedicated friend of ILYA). Please contact Deb at ILYACarePackages@firstuuwilm.org to let her know you can help support one of these youth.