Kids Aging Out of Foster Care

Over 20,000 children age out of the foster care system in the United States. 1 in 55 children who age out of foster care will find themselves homeless after turning 18. Only half will be employed by the age of 24, and less than 3% will earn a college degree. Bonnie Brae provides hope for these young people who have “aged out” and this hope is found in our community based transitional living programs. Bonnie Brae has established three community-based transitional living programs. The first opened in 2005 in New Brunswick, The Powers House, and the second home opened in Bound Brook in 2013, the Van Houten House. In March 2015, we opened our first community based transitional living home for young men ages 18-21 in Bridgewater, the Brozowski Liberty House. The home enables us to assist young men develop personal and professional skills. Our transitional living programs are extremely beneficial because they provide our young men with a stable support system. Residents have the opportunity to practice and experience living independently with the support and guidance of caring and trained Bonnie Brae staff. The goal is to provide a home for them for a year before they move on to college, an apartment, or group home. The young men will learn how to balance school and employment with maintaining a home and managing their personal care and wellness. Incorporating a transitional period positively impacts the lives of these young men. Their chance for success increases tremendously after learning necessary life skills. We need your help to maintain the homes and assist in implementing a positive change for young men. Please read more about our transitional living programs and consider donating to make a positive difference.