Anthony Ashman is a sophomore at Western Michigan University and would have been left to fend for himself had it not been for a voluntary foster care program.
"When I turned 19 and was just getting ready to go to college, I did voluntary foster care which allowed my case to remain open until I was 20," Ashman said.
Over 200 families welcomed kids into their homes during Michigan's adoption day on Tuesday. As it currently stands, many of the older kids will be leaving their foster homes soon.
"This year, 800 children in the foster care system will 'age out' at age 18," Maura Corrigan, director of Michigan's Department of Human Services, said.
For those who choose the additional support, they will be able to live in a licensed foster family home or under controlled supervision in a place of their won. To receive the extended benefits the kids must meet certain requirements.
"They have to either be in school or be working," Corrigan said. "The kids have to do something from their end in order to remain qualified for the program."
"To have an actual connection for a few more years while they get their feet on the ground is a wonderful thing," John Elmore, who works at Lutheran Social Services of Michigan, said.
Many in attendance on Tuesday say it was a simple decision to extend the voluntary care.
"I don't think the ordinary population throws their kids out when they turn 18," Corrigan added.
Ashman says he's grateful for the extra help, but has some words of advice for those sitting in his old situation.
"I would tell you to keep your head up high and everything's going to get better and no matter what, you can do it."
