Financial Impacts of Foster Care

Research reports that Nevada taxpayers spend an average of $40,000 per year AND up to $72,000 per year for each homeless person in Washoe County and Rural NV.  If we can reach our foster youth, ages 5 to 21, and provide them with the tools and opportunities to heal, that number could be greatly reduced and we would have better outcomes for our foster kids. 

How does this impact the lives of children?

1. Immediate Costs: 

• Medical expenses: Unaddressed health issues may lead to increased medical costs.
• Emergency interventions: Incidents requiring emergency services or law enforcement involvement.

2. Long-term Costs:

•  Mental health services: Unmet emotional needs may result in long-term mental health challenges, necessitating ongoing therapy or treatment.
•  Educational support: Lack of proper care may hinder educational attainment, leading to potential long-term economic impacts.
•  Social services: Increased reliance on social welfare programs and support services.
•  Legal costs: Involvement in the criminal justice system due to unaddressed behavioral issues or lack of support.
•  Loss of productivity: Potential loss of future economic contribution due to diminished opportunities resulting from inadequate care.
•  Homelessness: Higher risk of homelessness among former foster youth, leading to additional social and economic burdens.

3. Quality of Life Considerations:

• Emotional toll: Poor care can have profound emotional impacts on youth, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life.
• Interpersonal relationships: Difficulty forming healthy relationships due to unresolved trauma or lack of supportive environments.

4. Community Impact:

• Strain on social services: Increased demand on public resources and community support systems.
• Crime and safety: Unaddressed behavioral issues may contribute to community safety concerns and strain on law enforcement resources.

Additionally, it's essential to consider the ethical and moral imperatives of ensuring the well-being of vulnerable youth, beyond purely financial considerations.

Reference https://thenevadaindependent.com/article/annual-homeless-census-shows-increases-across-state-full-picture-incomplete

Invest in Lyon County kids and change one life at a time.