ILYA (Independent Living for Young Adults) has been serving youth who have aged out of foster care in New Castle County for 16 years. As a social justice program of First U, many volunteers have worked to make this such a successful program. And we couldn’t have done it without the outstanding support of YOU, the First U congregation and friends.
Recently, we received a very touching letter from the Trenee Parker, director of the Delaware Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families, Division of Family Services (DFS) and the Sophia Elliot, manager of their Independent Living Program. Excerpts from the letter include “ILYA remains a backbone of support that youth can continue to rely on for help, advocacy and support.” and “The support that you provide helps our youth and young adults to achieve goals that are so crucial to their success- housing, education and employment.”
They conclude with “On behalf of the Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families, thank you for partnering with the Division of Family Services to help make youths’ transition to adulthood a little less scary, and the holidays brighter! You are a part of the community that is working to ensure a successful future for our youth and young adults, and we value and appreciate your commitment!”
While the letter was addressed to ILYA, you as supporters share the praise Trenee and Sophia are giving. You can read the entire letter here.