Mary’s House opened its doors in 2003 with the goal to provide young women aging out of the foster care system with guidance, counseling, and programs designed to support them during this critical stage in their lives. The home is located in Escondido, just north of San Diego and includes six bedrooms on approximately 8 acres of land.

The transition from foster care to independence is difficult. Unarmed with the coping skills and support structure afforded to youth who grew up in supportive, intact families, many of these young women end up unemployed, homeless, or involved in prostitution and drugs. 

• There are approximately 5,100 children in foster care in San Diego County. 
• Of those children who remain in foster care and age out of care at age 18, 30 percent will experience  homelessness within 18 months of leaving foster care.
• Studies show that foster youth have serious difficulties finding and keeping jobs, getting an education and learning the skills necessary to live independently.
   

The sudden jolt out of the foster care system can be overwhelming. Mary’s House provides young women with the tools needed to move into the next stage of their lives with hope and optimism.

Mary’s House is named in honor of the late Mary Goodall, a longtime San Diego child advocate.

Help foster youth transition successfully into adulthood by donating here.

    
     All donations are refundable within 30 days of the transaction.