When youth reach their 18th birthday and have not been adopted or permanently reunited with their families, they are left to navigate life on their own.

Left on their own – and often without stable and supportive adults to help them navigate the challenges they face – they struggle to survive. Former foster youth are vulnerable to homelessness, incarceration, mental and physical illnesses, and early childbearing. They are forced to overcome challenges on their own, without home and family stability and supportive adults. Casa Valentina is the safety net needed as they mature and prepare to become independent and productive adults.