FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 15, 2025
Contact:
Mariah Craven
[email protected]
National Foster Youth Institute Applauds Idaho’s $23 Million Investment in Foster Care and Family Preservation
Washington, DC — The National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI) commends Idaho for taking a significant step forward in supporting foster youth and families through the passage of Senate Bill 1208. Governor Brad Little’s decision to allocate $23 million toward strengthening the state’s child welfare system will provide much-needed resources, including 63 new positions within the Department of Health and Welfare.
One of the most impactful aspects of this legislation is the extension of voluntary foster care to age 23, potentially giving young adults aging out of the system an additional two years of resources and support as they transition into adulthood.
“Extending foster care is a game-changer for young people navigating adulthood without a safety net,” said Rebecca Louve Yao, CEO of NFYI. “Bold investments like these will give more Idaho youth access to the stability, guidance, and resources they need to succeed. Just as importantly, the state’s focus on strengthening families will help prevent unnecessary removals and keep more children connected to their communities and culture. We’re excited to see the impact of this commitment and share the results in other communities.”
Idaho’s 20% funding increase for child welfare and its commitment to meaningful policy reforms signal a shift toward long-term solutions that benefit both youth and families. NFYI remains committed to working with states across the country to ensure that young people with lived experience are at the center of conversations about improving the foster care system.
Since 2012, NFYI has worked with current and former foster youth around the country to use their lived experience to call for effective and bold reforms to the child welfare system. By connecting grassroots foster youth activists with elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels, the organization is strengthening foster care and creating bridges between communities and Washington, DC.