At Wellroot Family Services, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to live their God-given potential, and thanks to several recent actions by Georgia’s General Assembly, more youth across the state will receive the support they need to build a strong foundation for adulthood.
The conclusion of last month’s legislative session brought exciting progress. First, Georgia has increased its commitment to the Fostering Success Tax Credit, which allows individuals and companies to redirect their state taxes to qualified nonprofits, like Wellroot, that serve youth transitioning out of foster care. The cap on available tax credits was raised from $20 million to $30 million annually. Even more important, the new law expands who can benefit from these donations.
Now, tax-credited contributions can support a broad range of services—like housing, education, and career training—for any young adult up to age 25 who spent at least six months in foster care after turning 14. Whether a young person is in college, a vocational program, or an apprenticeship, this change, along with participation from Georgia taxpayers, brings life-changing support within reach. Visit Wellroot.org/tax-credit to learn how you can support this tax credit by redirecting your Georgia taxes today.
In addition to expanding the Fostering Success Tax Credit, Senate Bill 85 authorizes the creation of the Georgia Foster Care Scholarship Act. This new law directs the Georgia Student Finance Authority to establish a scholarship program for eligible students who are current or former foster youth. While the framework has been approved, specific details about eligibility, application, and award amounts have not yet been released. Wellroot will continue to monitor updates as the program develops to ensure the young people we serve are aware and prepared to benefit. Together, these policies affirm what we know to be true: with the right support, young people who have experienced foster care can thrive.
And finally, Georgia’s House of Representatives has formed a study committee to investigate a deeply concerning trend—the increasing number of children, many with complex needs, being left in hospitals or other facilities without a home to return to. This is a crucial first step in understanding and solving the systemic issues that lead to such heartbreaking outcomes.
These legislative advances mark a hopeful turning point—and Wellroot is ready. We ensure that every dollar and policy change makes a real impact on the youth and families we support.
Let’s continue to walk alongside them—toward healing, hope, and a home.
