Foster Youth & Mental Health Access

Angelina Medina grew up in the foster care system. Now she works as a Regional Lead at iFoster, a nonprofit that employs former foster youth to connect others to resources. The disconnect many current and former foster youth face is about assumptions. Providers often see a kid who survived and think they are resilient, strong, and got-it-handled. But surviving doesn't always mean thriving. And having one’s basic needs met doesn't mean all their needs are met. Angelina's advice to healthcare professionals is: slow down, ask permission before diving in, stop assuming people are fine just because they're still standing, and show up consistently. Mental health is a policy issue and providers are part of that system. Who gets resources and what those resources are shapes whether foster youth can heal or just get by, and healthcare professionals can help close that gap.