Ryan’s Story

At 7 years old, Ryan was removed from his mother’s home and placed in SCO’s Foster Care program. Options for exploring his interests and creativity were limited. But that all changed for Ryan when his mentor at SCO encouraged and empowered him to pursue his dreams.

This mentorship broadened Ryan’s world and opened doors to opportunities. He discovered his abilities and strengths, nurtured a love for science, and developed his networking skills. Today, Ryan is proud to pay his experience forward by mentoring, encouraging, and guiding younger children at SCO.

Ryan is now a sophomore majoring in Biology at Jamestown Community College. SCO assisted him with transportation, college applications, and opportunities for financial aid to help him fulfill his potential and continue his education.

“Thank you for investing in my future,” said Ryan. “There is so much I would not have been able to do without the care and support that I received from SCO Family of Services.”

Jasmine’s Story

I entered foster care at 16 years old and was placed in the home of “Aunt” Nessa, as I liked to call her. Few people knew of my situation; it was our little secret. I was embarrassed by the family dysfunction that led me to this strange place in my life, and with the support of my SCO caseworkers, I realized that education was my way out.

My goal was to attend Spelman College. I faced some naysayers; guidance counselors who said it was too expensive, others who felt I would never get in. But my SCO caseworkers and staff supported my decision. They stayed on top of me, making sure I filled out every document and scholarship. It was the staff’s unwavering support and positive reinforcement that sustained me.

I was accepted to Spelman with scholarships from several organizations as well as financial support from SCO’s education and permanency program, which helped me afford my housing.

But that was just the start of my journey. During summer break, I earned an internship volunteering with foster youth and their families through AmeriCorps that changed my life. I didn’t want any special treatment, so no one at my job was aware of my status as a foster youth. But as I worked in the family visiting room, much like a fly on the wall, I watched young people about my age visiting with the children they had lost custody of, some pregnant again. I saw a vicious cycle happening before my eyes.

It was that summer I realized that as a woman of color, as a foster youth, and as a human being who just cares, it would be a disservice if I didn’t take advantage of my unique pairing of lived experiences and desire to affect change.

Today, I am at Teachers College Columbia University earning my Masters in Clinical Psychology on a full scholarship, so that I, too, can be a source of support for youth in need.

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Scattered Site Supportive Housing Program

The Scattered Site Supportive Housing Program provides housing and transitional services in Queens for young adults 18-25 years of age who have spent at least one year past their 16th birthday in foster care and are at risk of street or sheltered homelessness. The program provides housing while young adults transition from foster care to independence.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Young adults formerly in foster care who are at risk of homelessness

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

Age 18-25; must have spent at least one year past their 16th birthday in foster care and are at risk of street or sheltered homelessness. Candidate must be working, going to school, or a combination of both. Required to pay 30% of net income toward rent.

How to Access this Program or Service

NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) Teen Support Unit. Requires an approved 2010E application for NYNY 111 Pop I.

 

This program is associated with...

Foster Care

For over 50 years, SCO's Foster Care practice has been helping children and their families grow, heal and thrive. We find safe, temporary families for children and teens throughout New York City and Long Island. Read More

Related News

Northwell Health, NYC Administration for Children’s Services, Center for Fair Futures & Foster Agencies Launch Program to Improve Health Services for Young Adults Transitioning out of Care

December 15, 2023

SCO Family of Services Celebrates Grand Opening of Journey Chic Boutique Operated by Youth in Foster Care

November 29, 2023

Ryan’s Story

Empowerment through mentorship

Read Ryan’s Story

Jasmine’s Story

Foster Care staff helps Jasmine turn lived experience to advocacy for others

Read Jasmine’s Story

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