The ILYA (Independent Living for Young Adults) team would like to share a link to a wonderful ABC News story about a 19-year-old in Florida who aged out of the foster care system and was adopted by her former caseworker. Click here to view the video.

As the article notes, for teens who are aging out of the foster care system, having supportive adults in their lives, even if they are non-biological, is vital to the youths’ well-being and sense of security.
In Delaware, 62 youth in foster care had their 18th birthday in 2020. Currently, 42 youth in foster care will turn 18 this year (per Delaware Division of Family Services). ILYA offers supplemental support to the Independent Living Services provided by the state’s Division of Family Services for these young adults who have exited care after their 18th birthday but have not reached age 21. ILYA team members and volunteers coordinate projects that are designed to increase the youths’ chances for future success and independent living.
To learn more about ILYA projects, like the upcoming Graduation Party and Backpacks project for graduates, click here or contact member Barbara Crowell at bjdcrowell@gmail.com.