Aging Out of Foster Care: Towards a Universal Safety Net for Former Foster Care Youth

January 1, 2008

This article by Melinda Atkinson first appeared in the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review Winter, 2008. It identifies the specific needs and outcomes of youths who age out under current foster care policies. This Article next analyzes federal law relating to youths aging out and surveys various state law attempts to address gaps in federal law. Lastly, the author makes policy recommendations, arguing for a universal approach that provides basic services to all former foster care youths.

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