A University City agency that helps young people who've aged out of the foster care system has received a grant from the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

According to a press release, Epworth Children and Family Services was awarded a $26,464 one-time grant from the United Way. The funding will benefit an initiative that encourages healthy behaviors for young women ages 18-25 who are no longer under care of the state. Although, most youth leave the foster care system at 18, they can stay in Aging Out until age 25.

Epworth's Aging Out Initiative provides support to help youth get an education, gain employment and learn life skills such as budgeting and navagating the health care system.

“We are honored that United Way has selected us as a partner in building a healthier community and region for us all,” said Kevin Drollinger, Epworth Executive Director. “With this additional funding we can provide more assistance to young women to put them on the right course toward healthy families and healthy lifestyles.” 

Every year more than 500 young people use the Epworth Children and Family Service's Aging Out Center in U City. The center provides hot meals, laundry and shower facilities, a computer lab and counseling or life skills classes.