Southwest Montana News

Officials from the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and Reach Higher Montana are set to mail over 50 care packages to support foster care youth in Montana who are pursuing postsecondary education. This initiative is part of the Red Scarf Project.

This week, staff from Reach Higher Montana and DPHHS gathered to assemble these care packages for youth currently or previously in foster care. These students are enrolled in the fall semester of a postsecondary program and receive Educational Training Voucher (ETV) funds. In February 2023, those enrolled only in the spring semester will receive a Valentine's Day package.

The packages include homemade red scarves with notes from donors, personal care items such as a cookbook, monthly bill planner, chewing gum, snacks, Emergen-C, socks, gloves, and a small frying pan.

DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton expressed that this project aims to provide essential items while showing support. "We want them to know how proud we are of them as they diligently work to pursue their educational goals," Brereton said. "The Department stands ready to assist and support them however we can."

Administered by Reach Higher Montana, ETVs aid foster youth in attaining postsecondary education by offering up to $5,000 per year for five years. The program supports participants up to age 26. In 2022 alone, 43 students received ETVs during the fall semester with an additional ten expected next spring.

"The care packages are one way to show our continued support for Montana’s youth," said Rhonda Safford of Reach Higher Montana. She added that past recipients have expressed appreciation for these packages and acknowledged the contribution of Montanans through donated scarves.

The Montana Chafee Foster Care Independence Program (MCFCIP), part of DPHHS Child and Family Services Division, helps foster youth transition into adulthood by providing necessary life skills training. More information can be found on the DPHHS Foster Care Independence webpage.

Reach Higher Montana's mission is to assist students in strategically pursuing educational opportunities by working closely with DPHHS. Their collaboration ensures that foster youth feel supported while achieving their educational aspirations. Further details can be accessed at www.ReachHigherMontana.org.