“The intent behind that was to learn economic self-sufficiency, and also to have money for first and last months’ rent” when they left, Washington said.Ĭhildren and Family Services officials have been satisfied with the program, according to the department. Program providers put money for each participant into a savings account every month, with the money accessible to participants when they turned 21 or left the program. The YWCA’s dormitory setup and emphasis on job readiness were meant to offer a hybrid of independent living and support. The county Department of Children and Family Services has struggled to provide adequate housing and services for so-called transition-age youths, who still need adult guidance but also seek independence.
The program at the YWCA began in 2016 in response to state legislation that allowed young people to stay in foster care until age 21. “Under no circumstances would we establish a new program at the expense of foster kids,” said Matt Szabo, Garcetti’s deputy chief of staff.