Housing for Foster Youth: Celebrating the Donors Behind 58 New Student Homes

Sacramento Impact Group donated funds to furnish AcademySTAY's student apartments.

When young adults age out of foster care in Sacramento, too many face a terrifying reality: no place to call home, no furniture, and no support system to help them succeed in school or work. But thanks to an extraordinary circle of donors, 58 students will now have fully furnished, welcoming apartments, and a community rooting for their success.

Together, this group raised $100,000 to outfit AcademySTAY’s housing units with beds, desks, dressers, lamps, and more. Because of this generosity, every student who moves in walks into a real home: one with dignity, comfort, and care built into every detail.

“This project will help many generations of foster youth have the support they need to get educated, find a career, and contribute to society. It really is the best kind of project to fund as its impact is clear.” — Elfrena Foord, donor and campaign champion

A Vision Realized—And Growing

We’re thrilled to share that our 20th student has just moved in. Thanks to the completion of our third building, we’re now preparing to welcome 20 more students - with a fourth building opening this summer, bringing our total housing capacity to 58 young people by fall.

Every one of these homes is made possible by the generosity of the Sacramento Impact Partners, a coalition of local donors who stepped up with a shared belief: that every young person transitioning out of foster care deserves a safe, dignified place to call home.

We’re honored to recognize the individuals and foundations who fueled this campaign:

• David Feder and Liz Luttrell

• David McKie

• Elfrena Foord and Bruce Hester

• Mike Genovese

• Our Little Light Foundation (Dale and Katy Carlsen)

• Ralph and Maria Andersen Family Fund

• RCA Fund through Sacramento Region Community Foundation (coordinated by Larry Gilzean)

• Stille Family Fund (Nugget Markets)

  
  

We are deeply grateful to each of you for believing in our students and investing in their futures. Your support sends a powerful message: they are seen, they are worthy, and they are not alone.

“We don’t just house young people. We equip them to thrive. Every furnished apartment is a foundation for healing, growth, and self-determination.” — Jenny Davidson, Founder & Executive Director, AcademySTAY

Why Housing for Foster Youth Is About More Than Shelter

Each year in Sacramento County, about 170 teens age out of foster care. And within 18 months, nearly half will experience homelessness. But housing alone isn’t enough. Our students also need desks to study, tables to gather, and beds to rest. They need homes that feel like theirs.

One student said it best:

“I just need a safe space to focus on school, work, and building a future.” — J.J., 18, former foster youth

With your help, that future is already taking shape.

With Gratitude

From the bottom of our hearts - thank you. You are furnishing more than rooms. You are furnishing hope, stability, and opportunity. Together, we’re building a future where young people exiting foster care don’t fall through the cracks. They rise.

Your gift creates safe, stable homes.

Every donation helps us maintain housing, fund wraparound care, and provide emergency support for youth aging out of foster care.

Make a difference today →