The Fresh Start Program of Assistance League Austin provides individualized Life Kits to youth graduating and exiting the foster care system. The Life Kits contain needed items that youth choose from a check-list in order to set up a dorm or apartment as they leave foster care and have a “Fresh Start” in independent living. Life Kit items can include microwaves, linens, George Foreman grills, pots and pans, kitchen utensils, dishes, glasses, and other items needed to set up a household. We order these items in bulk from a store such as Target.
Each May, there is a flurry of activity as Fresh Start Committee members pack 30 individualized Life Kits for the youth. Fresh Start collaborates with the Department of Family and Protective Services (Child Welfare) as well as other department stores that provide gift certificates for the youth. In addition, Fresh Start provides “door prizes” of two Dell Laptops at the youth’s Graduation Celebration. Many of the youth receive the Life Kits at the Graduation Celebration.
