Teen homelessness in Los Angeles is a significant and complex issue that affects thousands of young people every year. Estimates suggest up to 4.2 million youth and young adults experience homelessness annually in the U.S. This includes about one in 30 teens (ages 13–17) and one in 10 young adults (ages 18–25).

Topics: foster youth, mental health, substance abuse, Teen Homelessness, Los Angeles

About two years ago, Montebello’s Schurr High School student Caroline Kelly Smarts decided she wanted to complete a Gold Award project. 

Topics: foster children, teens, foster youth, Changing Lives Blog, Changing Lives, Community-Based

Topics: foster youth, Changing Lives Blog, Changing Lives

We are thankful for the hope and words of encouragement special guests Paul and Diane shared with our children during the Mort Court dedication ceremony (and especially for the first free throw game) and the beautiful basketball court! 

Topics: foster children, Maryvale foster children, foster youth, Changing Lives Blog, Changing Lives

Topics: foster children, Maryvale foster children, trauma informed care, foster youth, Changing Lives Blog, Changing Lives

Topics: foster children, Maryvale foster children, foster youth, Art, Maryvale Art, Art Therapy

The beginning of a new school year may be viewed with worry by some children, but for others, the classroom represents an opportunity to leave a troubled past behind and embrace the future.

Topics: personal blogs, survivor, Maryvale foster children, trauma informed care, foster youth, Community-Based, foster youth stories

Recent high school graduate and Maryvale resident Haley has a dream, and it involves helping children less fortunate. “I want to be a social worker,” she said. “When you’ve been through the foster care system, and you know how it works, you’ll be a great social worker. I can give them advice, and they’ll know I’ve been there.”

Topics: foster children, survivors, foster youth, Changing Lives Blog, Changing Lives, foster youth stories