Every year in Texas, more than 1,200 young adults age out of the foster care system without being adopted. Sadly, 1 in 4 of America’s foster youth are homeless within four years of leaving foster care. Less than 3% will graduate with a bachelor’s degree, and only half will obtain employment by age 24 (data from the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare). These are grim statistics. But there is HOPE!
Our most recent OnRamp client is not an individual or family, but an entire charity called Hope’s Path in Spring, Texas. Hope’s Path was started in 2016 after a group of church, business, and community leaders saw the needs of ‘aged out’ foster youth, especially young men. They founded this residential home to provide a place of healing within a Christ-centered community, where young men are supported, equipped, and empowered to lead successful, independent lives. In a safe and encouraging environment and with the help of a team of mentors, they learn their individual worth and develop critical life skills to become healthy, successful adults.
Towards this end, Hope’s Path helps each young man secure employment in the north Houston area. However, these men can’t yet afford vehicles of their own. So Hope’s Path leaders must drive the men to and from work every day, covering hundreds of miles a week. They desperately needed a reliable, large vehicle, but couldn’t afford one. So they reached out to OnRamp.
We are so grateful to have wonderful financial partners in Houston and in the Brazos Valley who, together, helped us purchase this low mileage Honda Odyssey. It should last years, even with the extensive mileage requirements. This one vehicle will, Lord willing, serve dozens of young men transitioning from foster care into full adult independence. Thank you for giving generously to OnRamp so we can give generously to these deserving young men! God is multiplying your impact!
Pictured above are Hope’s Path Executive Director, Brandon Anderchuk, and Program Director, Ted Macvaugh. You guys are doing great work in Houston and we are honored to partner with you! Pictured below are Brent Hairston and Chip Jennings who prepared the vehicle for donation. Huge thanks to George’s Glass for a free replacement windshield and Christian Brothers Automotive for discount repair services on the van.
