Fostering Success Act partners with University System of Georgia in Atlanta

On September 13, 2024, Fostering Success Act, Inc. (FSA) announced a partnership with the University System of Georgia (USG) Foundation in Atlanta. This collaboration aims to provide scholarships and financial aid for youth who have aged out of Georgia's foster care system, allowing them to attend one of the state's 26 public colleges and universities. The initiative is supported by an initial $10 million challenge grant from FSA, which the USG Foundation will use to attract matching donations. The partnership highlights the importance of public-private collaborations in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Heidi Carr, executive director of FSA, emphasized the potential impact of this initiative on young adults lacking familial support. The funds raised will primarily cover essential services such as tuition, room and board, and mentorship, which are crucial for these individuals to pursue higher education and career opportunities. In 2022, the Georgia General Assembly introduced a foster care tax credit, encouraging taxpayers to contribute to organizations like FSA. This tax credit has already proven effective, raising nearly $11.6 million in its first year. The initiative aims to assist over 700 young adults who age out of foster care annually, a demographic that often faces significant challenges, including homelessness and poverty. Jackson Healthcare, the founding organization of FSA, fully funds its operating costs, ensuring that all donations directly benefit foster youth. This partnership with the USG Foundation represents a significant step towards improving the lives of these young adults and helping them achieve their educational aspirations.