An advocacy group for foster youth in Alaska is taking legal action against the state Office of Children’s Services. They argue that older youth in care are not getting enough food and basic necessities.
The organization, Facing Foster Care in Alaska, claims that youth living in shelters or dorms receive significantly less money for essentials compared to those placed with families. Amanda Metivier, director of the organization, has heard many complaints about this issue. Many young people feel they can’t afford enough food, especially when meal plans aren’t available.
“For a young person who needs to travel to a therapy appointment, the state should cover that,” Metivier said. She highlighted the struggles young adults face, especially during breaks when meal plans stop. Some have expressed uncertainty about how they will eat.
Alaska provides a small stipend for foster youth aged 16 and older to help them transition to adulthood. However, Metivier argues this amount falls far short of the more than $1,000 monthly provided to foster families for each child’s needs. Her organization often has to step in, offering gift cards for food and transportation.
While the Office of Children’s Services declined an interview, an official stated they do provide food vouchers, clothing support, and transportation assistance. They also said that older youth have access to the same funds as younger children, but Metivier’s group hasn’t seen changes despite discussions about these issues.
Metivier pointed out that Alaska faces a declining number of foster homes and ongoing workforce challenges within the child welfare system. “These issues won’t be resolved overnight,” she said. “These youth have immediate needs. Improving stipends wouldn’t be difficult.”
The lawsuit was filed on January 6 in Alaska Superior Court. As the state evaluates its foster care system, it’s crucial to note that Alaska ranks among the lowest in the nation in terms of foster care quality. Addressing these gaps could be vital for improving outcomes for vulnerable youth.
Research from the Youth Transition Funders Group shows that adequate support can greatly enhance the transition experience for youth from foster care. Providing sufficient resources may be one step toward better futures for these young people.
For more information on foster care rates in Alaska, you can check the official report here.
