Ready for Life Offers Hurricane Relief Support for Former Foster Youth

LARGO, Florida – Ready for Life, Inc. is mobilizing to provide critical recovery support to former foster care youth affected by the recent hurricanes. Starting Monday, October 14, 2024, the Ready for Life Skill Center will offer a range of relief services to help this vulnerable population navigate the challenges posed by back-to-back natural disasters.

"We know many people are hurting in our community, and our hearts go out to everyone in this challenging time," says Ready for Life’s CEO Kathy Mize. "Former foster youth, who often lack family support, are at significantly higher risk of experiencing homelessness, lost wages, and trauma following such disasters. Our relief program, battle-tested through past hurricanes as well as the 2020 pandemic, ensures we are there for these resilient young adults every step of the way."

The RFL Skill Center in Largo will be open from 10 AM to 4 PM throughout the week, offering:

·       Hot meals and showers

·       Laundry support

·       Transportation assistance

·       Clothing, food, and supplies distribution

·       Mental health counseling

·       Employment and job search support

·       Temporary housing arrangements

·       Continuing education support

·       Resources for Disaster Assistance and future planning

Former foster young adults and their children are invited to visit the Skill Center to access these services, enjoy companionship, and receive support in planning their next steps.

The community can support Ready for Life’s efforts by donating hurricane supplies or volunteering. For a list of current needs and to register as a volunteer, please visit www.readyforlifepinellas.org/recovery 

About Ready for Life, Inc.

Ready for Life, Inc. is a solution-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting former foster care youth in a successful transition to adulthood. We focus on homelessness prevention, education and employment advancement, and building vital support networks. Our vision is a world where every young person has the opportunity to succeed. We work toward our vision by providing a caring environment and wraparound services to young adults who age out of the foster care system with little to no support. Learn more at www.readyforlifepinellas.org.

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