 As I look back on my experience, I see the crucial role my community, nonprofits, and church played to bring me to where I am today. And I believe that I wouldn't be where I am without them. It has been over 10 years since I aged out of the foster care system, and there was not as much government assistance as there is today for youth coming out of care. Outside of being on food stamps for about six months, I received no financial support or government assistance after I aged out.