On October 21st, at the Freedom Plaza outside the Carvel State Office Building in Wilmington, Governor Carney signed into law H.B. 123, which will provide a waiver of tuition, room and board and food for youth who have been in Delaware’s foster care system at the University of Delaware, Delaware State University, and Del Tech. The bill was spearheaded by State Representative Krista Griffith who has recognized the importance of removing the financial barrier to these young adults pursuing higher education.

ILYA, which was recognized by Rep. Griffith at the ceremony for its work with these young adults, was represented by Pauline Koch, Kathie Stamm and Martha Gessler. They are pictured above with Representative Griffith (in pink).

Mayda Berrios, one of our ILYA student care package recipients, spoke eloquently at the event of the tremendous importance of this legislation to the youth in Delaware foster care and the message it sends to them of our belief in them and our hope for their futures.

Kathie Stamm noted that the ceremony was “a wonderful way to celebrate all those who work with foster care youth and who understand the significance of this legislation. What is particularly impactful about the bill is that it will provide access to year-round housing. In the past, many students would have nowhere safe to go during the holidays and when on-campus housing was closed. This will fill yet another gap in support and is an exciting milestone in the development of State services for these youth.”

For more details, read the WDEL news article, here.