One of CitySquare's "signature" initiatives involves our work at the Transition Resource Action Center (TRAC). This one-stop shop of services, training and opportunity focuses all its attention on youth who "age out" of the custodial care system (otherwise known as the foster care system) in the state of Texas. What follows is a report on this important part of our work in the city and region.
TRAC works with these special youth in the 19-county, CPS Northeast Texas region that includes Montague, Wise, Denton, Collin, Tarrant, Dallas, Rockwall, Kaufman, and Navarro counties.
Facts about this population:
25% experience Homelessness before age 22
Within 12-18 months of leaving care. . .
-33% will be on some form of public assistance
-40% will not have completed high school
-50% will be unemployed
Within 18 months of leaving care. . .
-60% of young ladies will have a child outside of marriage
-70% of youth leaving foster care report a desire to attend college
-Less than 3% actually obtain a college degree
In Texas, the average youth emancipating from CPS. . .
-Was removed from their family at age 11-15
-Had 8 placements
- Had 5 CPS workers
-Spent 5 years in care
TRAC helps young adults by providing
Preparation for “Adult Living” Classes
Money Management
“Ready to Rent”
College Visits
Employment Soft Skills
Workforce Services
Skill building
Assessment
Resume help
Education advocacy
Job referral & coaching
Job skills training
Job placement with partner businesses
Housing Services and Homeless Prevention
Emergency Assistance
Emergency Shelter
Transitional Housing
Permanent Supportive Housing
Major funding sources for TRAC
• Texas Child Protective Services
• Texas Workforce Commission
• HUD
• United Way, Foundations, and Individuals
For more insight and information click here! And take a moment to watch the video that follows.
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