State launches program extending foster care time

LANSING (AP) -- The Michigan Department of Human Services is launching a program to allow teenagers to voluntarily remain in foster care until they're 21. The department said the change is effective Monday. Gov. Rick Snyder signed the Young Adult Voluntary Foster Care Act into law last November. The program allows foster children, as they become legal adults, to voluntarily remain under state care if they are in school; in job training; employed 80 hours per month; or are deemed incapable of participating in employment or education activities due to a documented medical condition. They'll be able to receive financial and other help with education, counseling, housing and medical coverage as they make the transition from living in foster care to living on their own. Published: Wed, Apr 4, 2012