Ebook: A Guide For Those “Aging Out” Of Foster Care ln Texas

As you get ready to leave the foster care system, you may have mixed emotions—excited about becoming an adult, but scared or confused about being on your own. These feelings are normal for all young adults. Even though you are about to live on your own, you are not alone. There are many people who want you to succeed.

You probably have many questions about leaving foster care: Where will I live? Can I go to college? How will I pay for school? What if college isn’t for me? What type of job do I want? How will I pay bills?

Without planning, these questions could really make you feel nervous and overwhelmed. But, as any responsible adult knows, careful planning is the key to success. It is never too early to plan your exit from foster care. With some focus and support from others (like family, friends and caseworkers), you will succeed living on your own.

This guide is written for youth in the Texas foster care system who are either U.S. citizens or whose immigration status is legal permanent resident —those who have a “green card”. If you are not a citizen or green card holder you need to be sure steps are being taken to get you a green card—see the Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, Green Card and becoming a U.S. Citizen section of this guide and contact the Texas Foster Youth Justice Project for assistance. While some of the things you need to do may seem challenging, we want you to know that there are supportive people and groups (including in the government) that are ready to help.