TAMPA - Gov. Jeb Bush announced a new state program called "Connected by 25", designed for foster children who "age out," at a Friday kickoff event in Tampa.
Connected by 25 is one of three national pilot programs helping people who "age out" of foster care make successful transitions to adulthood.
The group is working with the community and state to open doors for foster children, ensure they complete their education, teach them financial literacy and help them gain lasting employment - all by the age of 25.
At the event, Eckerd Family Foundation president Joe Clark announced the foundation would contribute $1.3 million over three years to Connected by 25.
"All of us remember someone who opened a door for us," Bush said in an announcement. "These young people lack the advantages that many other children grow up with."
The program encourages businesses, individuals, and public and private agencies to participate as "Door Openers" by providing jobs, internships and financial education, serving as mentors, contributing to a scholarship program, and offering matching funds for special savings accounts.
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