The Family Unification Program (FUP): A Housing Option for Former Foster Youth

Type
Journal Article
Year published
2017
Journal
Child Welfare
Accession number

25472

Title

The Family Unification Program (FUP): A Housing Option for Former Foster Youth

Volume and issue

95, 1

Abstract

This journal article describes a study that examined how communities are using the Family Unification Program (FUP) to address the housing needs of former foster youth. The researchers collected survey data from 91 public housing agencies (PHAs) with FUP grants that serve youth and from 70 of their partner public child welfare agencies (PCHAs). They also conducted site visits to four FUP-for-youth communities. The findings indicate that FUP implementation with this population varies significantly across communities. Despite these variations, 46 percent of PCWAs and 41 percent of PHAs identified the 18-month time limit on housing assistance as a major challenge to delivering FUP services. The authors suggest additional research that collects data on youth participants in three areas: 1) experiences with foster care and homelessness prior to entering the program, 2) engagement in supportive services while receiving FUP, and 3) outcomes after exiting the program. (Author Abstract Modified)

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