When we talk about financial education, we often describe it as a life skill—something we all need, something we all should have. But for many young people, particularly those in the foster care system, access to even the most basic financial knowledge isn't a given—it's a gap.
April marks Financial Capability Month, a time to spotlight the importance of empowering individuals with the tools to manage their money and build their futures. But it’s also a moment to ask: Who’s being left behind?
The missing piece for foster youth
Unlike their peers, foster youth often move between placements, face inconsistent adult guidance, and lack the traditional safety net of parental financial modeling. When they “age out” of the system—typically at 18 or 21—they’re expected to navigate a complex world of bills, credit, banking, and budgeting on their own, often without the foundation of financial education that many of their peers had the opportunity to obtain.
This population is disproportionately affected by identity theft, has lower rates of financial inclusion, and faces systemic barriers to building wealth. And without early intervention, these challenges compound over time and can lead to joblessness, homelessness, and being unbanked.
As a credit union movement rooted in “people helping people,” we have an opportunity—and responsibility—to step in.
Financial eduation that’s trauma-informed and trust-based
Supporting foster youth isn’t just about handing out budgeting worksheets. It’s about creating safe, welcoming spaces for learning. It’s about rethinking how financial education is delivered—making it relevant, culturally competent, and trauma-informed.
Credit unions are uniquely equipped for this work. With community ties, mission-driven leadership, and experience delivering financial education, we can provide not just products, but partnership. We can show up for youth in ways that build trust—and help them build futures.
Turning awareness into action
This month, as we highlight the importance of financial capability, let’s also recognize the power of taking focused, inclusive action. Across the country, a number of credit unions are already doing this work—partnering with child welfare organizations, developing youth-friendly accounts, and creating programs tailored to the real-world needs of foster youth.
The National Credit Union Foundation is proud to support credit unions that are exploring innovative ways to serve foster youth through financial education and inclusion. For those looking to deepen their impact, especially among underserved young people, we offer a range of tools and resources—including current grant opportunities. Let’s move beyond awareness and toward equity.
Let’s make financial literacy more than a privilege—it should be a promise.
