LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Foster Care Council Lexington’s nonprofit helps children with education, financial and enrichment services and provides transitional living for aging foster youth.
One program within the nonprofit is helping young people aging out of the system find a special place of their own. Buffy Lawson, longtime decorator, created "My Vibe," which helps change outcomes for foster youth through transitional living once they're 18 or older.
“There's nothing more important than feeling dignified and feeling like you live in a home that you're proud of,” Lawson said.
She spends time with young people, learning about their interests and needs such as food or cleaning supplies. Lawson also involves local artists to add high-valued art to their homes.
“Most of these individuals have lived in 13-plus homes by the time we come in the picture," Lawson said. "We come in, and we do everything from stock their cupboards with cooking items to putting in local artists that are donating art."
According to Kentucky Youth Advocates, one in three young adults who leave foster care in Kentucky will experience homelessness and/or housing instability.
Lawson said she collects donations for apartments throughout the year, and it will be a challenge to move forward without warehouse space.
“We are on a very, very small budget, so the Facebook marketplace has been a huge deal," Lawson said. "But I made 13 trips yesterday, so we need a warehouse."
Lawson said the community's help is important in helping her reach her goals. She added while the program helps one person each month find a home, every day it works toward changing outcomes for foster youth.