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July 2007
 U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Actions Would Help States
Prepare Youth in the Foster Care System for Independent Living
The Government Accountability Office (GAO)
researched challenges facing foster care programs as
they prepare youth to transition to independent living. The GAO surveyed
state independent living coordinators, conducted four state site visits,
and reviewed states plans and annual reports. Information
was taken from a 2006 survey of state child welfare directors.
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31 states remained dissatisfied with housing
for youth transitioning to independence, availability of mental health,
substance abuse, and dental health services
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Child welfare directors showed that critical
gaps remained in providing services such as mental health and housing
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There were differences in eligibility
requirements and level of services between the youth and adult systems,
and long waiting lists
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Limited affordable housing in costly urban
areas, scarce rental housing in rural areas, and problems obtaining a
rental lease due to the lack of youth employment and credit history or
a co-signer to guarantee payment
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