JTS Newsletter - July 2025

Across the country, advocates are working tirelessly to inform policymakers about the critical value of programs that serve children and families involved in the child welfare system. Their voices—rooted in lived experience, frontline practice, and research—are helping shape a growing national conversation about how to strengthen support for youth in foster care. 

At Journey to Success, we’re proud of this momentum. We remain focused on advancing federal policies that reflect what young people need to thrive as they transition to adulthood. That includes championing long-overdue reforms to the Chafee program—one of the primary federal programs designed to support youth and young adults in foster care. 

Chafee holds a powerful vision: helping youth prepare for adulthood with the tools, relationships, and opportunities they need to succeed. But that vision remains out of reach for too many. It’s time to modernize and invest in Chafee so that the program can truly deliver on its promise. 

We’re encouraged that Congress is paying attention. The House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare recently held a hearing titled, “Aging Out is Not a Plan: Reimagining Futures for Foster Youth.” Journey to Success was pleased to submit written testimony to the committee. In it, we made the case for reform and highlighted the broader benefits—improved well-being for youth, stronger families, and more vibrant communities. As federal leaders consider next steps, we are committed to continuing this advocacy alongside our partners.