Foster Youth Disaster Assistance—One Step Closer to the Governor's Desk
California State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil is excited to share the news of SB 589's unanimous passage in the Assembly Human Services Committee. This significant legislation is specifically designed to prioritize foster youth disaster relief.
SB 589 establishes a statewide Foster Youth Disaster Response Fund to provide immediate grants and resources to one of the most vulnerable populations in our state. This fund caters to the urgent needs of youth in foster care and their caregivers, including transportation, interim housing, and replacement of essential belongings. Natural disasters pose unique challenges for foster youth and their caregivers, and the state has a legal responsibility to meet their needs, especially before long-term assistance from federal agencies becomes available.
Children and youth in foster care truly appreciate all of Senator Alvarado-Gil's efforts to ensure a dedicated statewide Child Welfare Disaster Response Fund is available after a devastating wildfire or flood. In the weeks and months following a natural disaster, youth and their caregivers often feel alone in confronting distinct challenges and heartbreaking choices and struggle to rebuild their lives. Thanks to Senator Alvarado-Gil, we are closer than ever to making sure California takes care of them when they need it the most," stated Susanna Kniffen, Policy Director for Children Now.
Senator Alvarado-Gil stressed the importance of SB 589, especially during times of crisis, stating, "The Foster Youth Disaster Relief bill will guarantee that we possess the essential resources to tend to the immediate needs of children and youth in foster care."
Without critical support during heightened stress and limited resources, stable living situations for foster youth can be disrupted, leading to further trauma and instability. SB 589 will minimize such disruptions and provide stability, nurturing relationships, and trauma reduction for children in foster care, particularly in the aftermath of a disaster.
To learn more about Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil please visit: https://sd04.senate.ca.gov/.
Senator Alvarado-Gil represents the 4th Senate District including the Counties of Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne.
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