Stitt Signs Executive Order Expanding Financial Opportunities for Foster Youth

Stitt Signs Executive Order Expanding Financial Opportunities for Foster Youth

Governor Kevin Stitt has signed an executive order aimed at expanding financial opportunities for children in Oklahoma’s foster care system. The order builds on the Trump Administration’s Fostering the Future initiative and seeks to ensure eligible foster children have access to federal Trump Accounts and the state’s Oklahoma Dream Accounts Investment Program. “Every child in Oklahoma deserves the opportunity to chase the American Dream,” Stitt said. “The President and First Lady are working to make sure every American child, regardless of their circumstances, has that opportunity. I’m proud to partner with them.” According to the governor’s office, the executive order directs the Oklahoma Department of Human Services to identify and secure federal benefits available to children in state custody and ensure those funds are used in the child’s best interest. The order also advances implementation of the Oklahoma Dream Accounts Investment Program, which is designed to help eligible foster youth build long-term savings for education, career training, homeownership, or starting a business. Stitt said Oklahoma will contribute an additional $250 for each eligible foster child participating in the program. Lauren Tatum, deputy director of child welfare services at OKDHS, said the initiative is intended to help young people leave foster care with additional resources and opportunities for future success. OKDHS will begin identifying eligible children, securing available federal benefits, and developing the framework needed to implement the program.