Positive, independence training for youth aging out of foster care system

By Leanna Westergaard, Staff Writer

A Grand Opening celebration for Grace Landing is planned for March this year for a much needed facility in Osceola County.  Located across from the Kissimmee Police Department in Kissimmee will be a center for young men, 18 – 23, who have aged out of the state foster care system.

“Grace Landing is the answer to the dire need for a runaway shelter in Osceola County. Our purpose is to serve the community by positively affecting family values and relationships,” states the brochure for the program.  The core values of Grace Landing build up young adults after they have aged out of the current [foster care] system and will grant the individuals interdependence and a strong future. 

The services provided by this group are all encompassing and varied to meet the needs of the young adults.  There is an application and interview process to be admitted into the program.  Once enrolled, individuals will live on campus with most amenities provided; plus community resources are easily accessible.  They have access to counseling and life skills courses which will empower them to become independent.  Included in the services offered will be courses that are often taken for granted, such as Character Skills and Budgeting.  In fact, some of the responsibilities required by Grace Landing ask that individuals work full-time/attend school; work/volunteer part-time; attend trainings/meetings; maintain finances; shop/cook own meals. 

Through this program Osceola County can hope to see a generation of individuals who, despite a rough start, stand tall and contribute to the community and are able to pass these values on to future generations. 

For more information please visit Grace Landing’s website at www.gracelanding.com or call 407-470-6041.  Because the facility operates as a not-for-profit organization, please consider volunteering and supporting Grace Landing.  For more donation information please e-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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