Transitioning from foster care in the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to independent adulthood could prove a challenge for several young adults. According to PBS, statistics show that the aged-out adults are much more likely to end up homeless, unemployed, or in trouble with the law. Now, OKDHS is taking steps for change.

A five-year, $1 million grant has been established to target foster children who are about to age out of state custody. This program, called the Oklahoma Bridge to Independence Network, works with resources in rural communities to create support system for rural, homeless youth. Key partners in the project include several youth service organizations in Oklahoma.

Those helped will be foster children between 16 and 20 years of age in the state who will need help before they can live independently. Each of the five years, $200,000 will be available with the help of local and state partners. The money will help develop support systems for those who have trouble transitioning between state custody and independent living. For more information on what OKDHS does in the community, visit www.okdhs.org.