I'm truly passionate about supporting our foster care community, and I'm incredibly grateful for the outstanding efforts of our community in making a real difference.
Here are two significant milestones we've achieved together:
Saving San Pasqual Academy: When the future of San Pasqual Academy was uncertain, our community rallied together to ensure its continuation. This incredible institution plays a vital role in the lives of foster youth, providing them with stability, support, and opportunities for a brighter future.
Reforming Foster Care Benefits: Historically, foster youth in California faced challenges with collecting their Social Security benefits, which often led to financial instability and, tragically, homelessness. I'm proud to have led the initiative to reform this practice in San Diego County. Now, foster youth's SSA benefits are safeguarded in a reserve account until they turn 16, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive.
These achievements are a testament to the power of community and collaboration. Earlier this week, we kicked off National Foster Care Month and raised awareness about the work that still needs to be done.
