Our college programs were launched.
Providing Support for College Students in Foster Care
Since 2016, The New York Foundling has worked in partnership with NYC’s Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) to provide comprehensive financial, academic, and social supports to help young people in New York City’s foster care system succeed in college and beyond. The latest incarnation of this programming – The College Choice Program – was launched in 2022 to enhance existing and prior ACS College Initiative programs (The Dorm Project; the Fostering College Success Initiative; the Fostering College Success Stipend; and College Room and Board.)
College Choice works with SUNY, CUNY, private universities throughout New York, as well as colleges in other states, and provides support to students studying abroad.
Our Vision
Only 3% of young people in foster care earn a college degree. Our vision is to change those odds.
Our Mission
Expand equitable access to higher education for youth with lived experience in the child welfare system by removing barriers, providing targeted support, and encouraging success through advocacy, resources, and community partnerships.
Our Impact
Success by the Numbers
Started with just 40 students
The support has grown exponentially since our humble beginnings
10+ Years
Providing vital services to youth in care attending college and university
Over 100
College and University Partners across the United States and beyond
600+ People
Who are served annual by the College Choice Program
College Choice Support Services
Building Stronger Futures
Since 2016, our wrap-around service model has built on The Foundling’s unique expertise in supporting the educational achievement of adolescents in foster care.
Our programming provides a wide range of academic, social, financial, and professional support, helping students not only graduate with a college degree but also build a stronger future.
Participants are supported by College Success Advisors, who are trained to respond to the unique challenges youth in foster care face. Students also benefit from career counseling and academic tutoring to strengthen study skills, choose majors, and design long-term academic plans.
Youth Advisory Board
Student Informed Programming
The Youth Advisory Board is at the heart of our program. Made up of dedicated student leaders, the Board ensures our services remain relevant and impactful. Their insight, feedback, and ideas play a vital role in shaping the program’s growth and improvement.
