First Lady Melania Trump Secures $25 Million for Foster Youth Housing in 2026 Budget, Marking 'BE BEST' Initiative's 7th Anniversary

First Lady Melania Trump announced a $25 million investment in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget to support the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Foster Youth to Independence program. The announcement, made on May 10, 2025, marks the seventh anniversary of her 'BE BEST' initiative and aligns with National Foster Care Month. The funding aims to provide housing assistance and supportive services to foster youth at risk of homelessness. HUD Secretary Scott Turner praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to prevent homelessness among young adults transitioning out of foster care.

A Milestone for "BE BEST"

Launched in 2018 during the Trump administration, the "BE BEST" initiative has focused on the well-being of children, with particular emphasis on social, emotional, and physical health. Over the years, the initiative has expanded to include programs like "Fostering the Future," which addresses the unique challenges faced by youth aging out of the foster care system.

Marking the seventh anniversary of "BE BEST," the First Lady emphasized the importance of ensuring stability and opportunity for vulnerable youth. “I am proud to have successfully secured $25 million to provide housing for individuals aging out of foster care,” said Mrs. Trump. “This is another essential measure that ensures the safety, welfare, and autonomy of those in the foster community.”

Addressing a Critical Need

Each year, more than 20,000 young people age out of the foster care system in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Many of these individuals face immediate housing insecurity, with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare estimating that approximately 25% experience homelessness within four years of leaving care.

The FYI program, administered by HUD, aims to bridge this gap by offering housing vouchers and supportive services to young adults under the age of 25 who are currently in or have recently exited the foster care system. The newly secured $25 million will significantly expand the program’s reach, providing thousands of youth with access to short-term housing assistance, education opportunities, and career pathways.

HUD Partnership and Implementation

HUD Secretary Scott Turner praised the First Lady’s efforts, calling the investment a “game-changer” for foster youth. “This dedicated funding for foster youth is a game-changer in providing young adults with access to short-term housing assistance and supportive services, which will prevent homelessness,” Turner said. “I am so appreciative of the First Lady’s efforts, for her commitment to helping our Nation’s foster youth through her BE BEST initiative and for championing public-private partnerships that are changing lives every day.”

The FYI program works by issuing housing vouchers to local public housing authorities (PHAs), which then partner with child welfare agencies to identify eligible youth. The assistance typically lasts up to 36 months and is designed to provide a stable foundation as young adults transition to independent living.

Recent HUD Awards and Ongoing Support

In addition to the $25 million budget allocation for FY2026, HUD also announced a separate $1.8 million investment this month to support more than 100 young Americans aging out of foster care. This funding, also part of the FYI program, will provide temporary housing and supportive services for a duration of 36 months.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to strengthen transitional support systems for vulnerable populations. During his first term, President Trump signed the Family First Prevention Services Act into law, which aims to prevent children from entering foster care by funding evidence-based prevention services.

Public-Private Partnerships and Broader Impact

The First Lady’s announcement also highlights the role of public-private partnerships in addressing systemic challenges. Through "BE BEST" and its sub-initiatives, Mrs. Trump has consistently advocated for collaborative solutions that bring together government agencies, nonprofits, and private sector stakeholders.

“Secretary Scott Turner’s commitment will provide thousands of youth transitioning out of the foster care system with dedicated rental assistance and other supportive services to promote stability and self-sufficiency,” Mrs. Trump added.

The investment is expected to not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also to contribute to long-term outcomes such as reduced homelessness, improved educational attainment, and increased employment among former foster youth.

National Recognition and Continued Advocacy

The announcement comes as part of a series of events recognizing National Foster Care Month. Earlier this month, President Trump issued a proclamation honoring the families, caregivers, and advocates who support children in the foster system. “I am pleased to join my husband in honoring the families, caregivers and advocates who provide shelter, stability and inspiration to our children,” said Mrs. Trump.

The First Lady also hosted military mothers at the White House ahead of Mother’s Day, further emphasizing her commitment to family and child welfare. “The sacred strength of women is a profound force with unwavering love and nurturing wisdom,” she said during the event. “We have the ability to inspire, uplift and shape the future hearts of our children.”

First Lady Melania Trump Secures $25 Million for Foster Youth Housing in 2026 Budget, Marking 'BE BEST' Initiative's 7th Anniversary

Key Updates

Trump's 2026 Budget Proposal: $26.7 Billion Cut to HUD Threatens Housing Vouchers for 2 Million Low-Income Households