A 25th Circuit Court judge has been named to a task force to assess and tackle the critical and unique needs of young Missourians coming of age in the state’s care as foster children.
Judge Mary Sheffield is among 17 public and private experts and stakeholders assigned to the blue ribbon panel to identify opportunities to improve outcomes for young Missourians exiting foster care.
Gov. Matt Blunt made the announcement.
There are 9,373 children in Missouri’s foster care system. About 24 percent are 16 or older. Experts say young Missourians leaving the foster care system may face difficulties finding employment, securing a place to live, understanding basic finances and accessing medical care.
The task force is to develop a three-year plan to identify potential legislative priorities, strategies to promote and expanding existing resources and additional training of those dedicated to help teenagers leaving foster care.