CELL PHONE PROGRAM
Staying Connected
Providing Connectivity for Empowered Transitions: Our initiative extends free cell phones and service plans to foster youth on the cusp of aging out, as well as those who have already transitioned out of the foster care system. These young individuals often encounter the destabilizing effects of constant change, moving from one place to another, which disrupts their ability to establish a strong foundation. The cycle of shifting caseworkers and placements results in frequent school changes, leading to disconnection from friends and family.
Essential Resources
As highlighted by college students' texting experiences, successful adaptation post-foster care transition is closely linked to maintaining and rebuilding social connections. The digital divide, further underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, poses a critical challenge for foster youth. The shift to online living highlighted the necessity of basic internet access, an essential resource that foster youth aging out or post-care often lack. This digital gap hinders not only their capacity to establish and sustain meaningful relationships, but also their engagement with education, employment, information consumption, and future planning
Complimentary Cell Phones
Our program ensures that every enrolled youth receives a complimentary cell phone and service plan. Aspire Alliance has introduced this cell phone initiative recognizing that by removing this technological barrier, we can significantly enhance mental well-being and success outcomes for foster youth. This endeavor complements our volunteer mentor program, as the presence of a phone acts as a vital link between mentors and mentees, reinforcing and strengthening their relationship.
HOW IT WORKS
Former foster care youth and homeless community youth (18-21 years) live independently in a home with roommates. They receive professional case management, weekly counseling, job and life skills, educational assistance, and resource referrals, to help them meet their goals and leave the program ready to become productive members of our community. These vulnerable young adults are given a safe place to live and are taught how to care for themselves so that they can become productive, empowered members of our community. For more information about Aspire Alliance, please call (409)553-3879
Admission Requirements
Young adults who are eligible for admission into the Aspire Alliance Supervised Independent Living Program are those that meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Must be a male or female with a signed extended foster care agreement;
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Must be between the ages of 18 and 21;
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Must be enrolled in a high school, trade school, and/or post-secondary education program; or full-time employment
Ways You Can Donate
Donate In Person
We welcome donations in person at our headquarters, located at: 3129 Kingsley Dr. Pearland, TX 77584. Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. We accept cash, check, and credit card donations.
Donate Over the Phone
To make a donation over the phone, please call us at 409-553-3879. Our donation hotline is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. We accept all major credit cards.
Donate By Email
To donate by email, please contact us at donate@aspirealliance.org. We will provide you with instructions on how to make a donation via wire transfer or other secure methods.