Casa Valentina
December 9, 2008 · Print This Article
Casa Valentina is a residential and support services program that addresses the unique gender-specific needs of young women transitioning from foster care to independent living. Casa Valentina was formed in 2004 by a group of concerned women who acknowledged the immense challenges faced by young women who age out of foster care at age 18 without the life experience, financial stability and support they need to survive on their own. Facing numerous transitional challenges, these young women are vulnerable to prostitution, incarceration, pregnancy, violence, sexual abuse and homelessness. In the course of its first two years, Casa Valentina introduced thousands of people in the community to the crisis facing young women emerging from foster care and raised the funds necessary to turn their dream of affordable housing for these young women into a reality. Today, Casa Valentina has two affordable housing sites located in Miami-Dade County with the capacity to house up to 14 young women ages 18 to 23. Both apartment buildings are located in safe neighborhoods and near public transportation. Residents pay no more than $350 in rent and have the opportunity to live at Casa Valentina for up to 24 months. In tandem to the affordable housing, Casa Valentina also provides comprehensive support services and a life-skills curriculum to all of its residents. A Casa Valentina Program Director oversees their academic and employment progress, life-skills development, physical and mental health needs, and social and emotional growth. Additionally, individuals and groups from the community provide participants with volunteer mentorship, job-skills training and enrichment programs such as outings to museums and sporting events, cooking classes and yoga.
Our Mission:
To provide young women in Miami-Dade County who age out of foster care with safe, affordable housing and the support services they need to become successful, independent adults.
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