With over 391,000 children in foster care in the U.S. and an estimated 23,000 aging out annually without permanent support, One Hope United is expanding its Hope House model to Illinois in 2025. This innovative family home alternative to group care provides stability, therapeutic healing, and independent living skills to teens in foster care, helping them successfully transition to adulthood. Hope Houses have already transformed lives in Florida, where nine homes currently operate, serving teens ages 13-17 in Volusia, Osceola, Pinellas, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, with two more homes scheduled to open this year. The expansion will bring five Hope Houses to Illinois, directly addressing the 15,000+ youth in the state’s child welfare system, many of whom face housing instability, education gaps, and trauma-related challenges. Hope Houses stand apart by focusing on:
A true home environment: Caring Hope House foster parents live with the youth, providing the love, structure, and stability of a family setting. Youth care workers—who are closer in age—offer mentorship, academic support, and life skills training.

Therapeutic healing: On-site therapists help youth understand their trauma, identify triggers, and develop healthy coping mechanisms through creative outlets like music, art, and gardening.

For more information, visit onehopeunited.org.

Photo Credit: One Hope United