Academystay

Sacramento is a community grappling with severe socio-economic challenges, including high rates of homelessness, food scarcity, substance abuse, mental illness, and violence. These issues disproportionately affect marginalized populations within the community. A particularly vulnerable group within this context is aged-out foster youth, who face a significantly higher risk of experiencing negative outcomes due to their lack of stable support systems. Nationally, while 93% of foster youth express a desire to pursue higher education, only 2-4% are able to achieve this dream. The barriers they face are formidable and multifaceted:

1. Housing Insecurity: Without a stable place to call home, foster youth often struggle to focus on their studies, as they are preoccupied with concerns about where they will sleep each night.
2. Financial Instability: Limited financial resources force many foster youth to make difficult choices between basic necessities and educational expenses. This financial strain makes higher education seem like an unattainable luxury.
3. Food Scarcity: Hunger and malnutrition impair their ability to concentrate and perform academically, further diminishing their chances of success.
4. Lack of Family and Community Support: Without the emotional and practical support of a family, foster youth often lack the guidance and encouragement needed to navigate the complexities of higher education.

These challenges are even more pronounced for foster youth who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ, disabled, low-income, immigrants, or first-generation college students. These marginalized groups face additional layers of bias and exclusion, further impeding their access to higher education and opportunities for success.

AcademySTAY is dedicated to breaking this cycle of disadvantage by offering a lifeline to aged-out foster youth. Our program provides a comprehensive support system designed to address the unique needs of these young individuals. Located in North Sacramento, our 32-unit transitional housing complex offers a safe and supportive environment where students can live for 12-24 months. Here, they receive:

• Fully Furnished Apartments: Ensuring a stable and comfortable living environment.
• Comprehensive Case Management: Personalized plans that address each student's unique needs and help them develop a roadmap for success.
• Dedicated Mentors: Providing guidance, support, and role models who inspire and motivate.
• Life Skills Classes: Equipping students with essential skills for independence and self-sufficiency.
• Transportation Assistance: Removing logistical barriers to accessing education and employment opportunities.

This holistic, wrap-around support system is designed to eliminate the obstacles that have historically prevented these vulnerable individuals from achieving their educational and personal aspirations. By addressing their immediate needs and fostering a stable, nurturing environment, AcademySTAY empowers foster youth to turn their college dreams into reality and build brighter futures.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into every aspect of our program. We prioritize students from historically marginalized communities, ensuring they receive the tailored support they need to overcome systemic barriers. By fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equity, AcademySTAY empowers foster youth to turn their college dreams into reality and build brighter futures.