OKC metro organization helps kids aging out of foster care

According to the National Foster Youth Institute Statistics, about 20% of children in foster care will become homeless by 18.

Lucas Morgan found himself joining the nearly 30,000 young adults who age out of foster care, but don't have anywhere to go or any money in their pockets.

However, thanks to the Neighborhood Services Organization, Morgan says he had a fighting chance at life.

Lucas' Story

When Morgan was 17, he began discussing what life after aging out of foster care would look like with his case workers. They discussed several options for housing and work, but, unless he moved in with relatives, who he barely knew, he would be without a home.

Morgan said he would later bounce from shelter to shelter trying to get on his feet before learning of NSO.

"As far as young guys in my situation ... I feel like its the pride ... to want to be independent and not have that help," Morgan said. "I'd say to just realize that in order to become the man you want to be sometimes ... You're going to have to ask for help."

Whats services does NSO provide?

NSO is an over 100-year-old non-profit in the heart of Oklahoma City, specializing in giving homes to 18-year-olds exiting foster care, free dental care services, a WIC clinic and protection for women escaping domestic violence situations.

Anyone leaving foster care will be placed in temporary housing for up to 2 years and will be provided job resources. Single adults living with mental illness can also find permanent housing through the program

What types of housing are available with NSO?

Permanent housing is given to adults with mental health illnesses.

Transitional Housing is offered at Martha's House, Gatewood, and Carolyn Williams Center. These options are available for mothers and homeless young men aged 18-23 years old. Both programs run for up to 24 months.

How to contact NSO

You can either call (405) 236-0452 or go to their website https://www.nsookc.org/contact-us/