BLUE ISLAND, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Young women transitioning from foster care in Illinois will now have a new place to stay, as they begin their journey toward independent living.
A celebratory ribbon cutting on Tuesday marked the official opening of the Unlimited Potential House, or the “UP House” ‘s new campus and its transitional living facility.
Governor J.B. Pritzker joined the Department of Children and Family Services to introduce the facilities known as “Logan’s Place” and “Kumari’s Place,” which include various recreational rooms, guidance from mentees, and access to support and educational resources.
“It will eventually serve 50 young women, ages 17 and a half through 21 who are aging out of the DCFS system,” he explained.
UP House Founder Tangela Thornton expressed gratitude for support from Pritzker and DCFS for the initiative.
“It is our goal to help young women see a grander vision of themselves, complete their educational goals and embrace a brighter, self-sustainable future,” she said.