Report

This report, a product of the Midwest Study, analyzes how former foster care youth are faring at age 26. It reviews survey results on a wide range of issues — everything from employment records and academic experiences to family relationships and pregnancy rates. The final-page conclusion is both disquieting and clear: Foster care alum face an uphill battle throughout early adulthood, and we must do more to help these vulnerable youth succeed. 

September 6, 2011

In This Report, You’ll Learn

  1. 1

    An overview of the Midwest Study.

  2. 2

    How the Midwest Study participants are doing at age 26.

  3. 3

    How the Midwest Study participants have fared over time.

  4. 4

    What these new results say about existing foster care services.

Key Takeaway

It’s time to take a hard look at the services and supports we are offering to youth in foster care

The Midwest Study examines how young adults are faring after exiting foster care. This report shares findings from the study’s 5th survey, conducted when most respondents were 26 years old. Its bare-bones conclusion? Young people are aging out of foster care without the knowledge and skills needed to make it on their own.  

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations

Related reports: