Atlanta News First reported that the restrictions for charitable contributions to the Georgia foster care tax credit were lifted on Monday.
In 2023, the Fostering Success Act introduced a tax credit program that successfully raised $11.6 million in its first year. This program is specifically designed to aid former foster children who have transitioned out of the program.
According to State Representative Mark Newton, the responsibility of taking care of these foster children should not come to an end just because they have turned 18.
Newton expressed that out of the 4,000 bills that they examine annually, there is none more significant than the efforts made by the chamber and the governor for the betterment of adoption and foster care.
The state has approved Fostering Success Act Inc. (FSA), a nonprofit organization, as one of the eligible foster care support organizations to receive funds.
Nonprofits, including FSA, must meet specific qualifications to receive the funds as per the law. These funds can be utilized to provide essential services to young adults who have aged out of foster care, such as medical care, counseling, food, car repairs, or even a place to live.
As a graduate student taking online courses, Mike Conger from Valdosta had been experiencing tooth pain for nine years without receiving proper dental care. This is especially concerning as he is a former foster youth who may not have had access to regular dental check-ups growing up.
Conger expressed deep gratitude for the tax credit that helped her cover expenses such as hotel rooms, gas, car repairs, and food. Without it, she would have struggled to travel to Atlanta for much-needed dental treatment at a charity clinic. Her broken teeth had caused intense pain, making it difficult to eat.
During a press conference on Monday, Heidi Carr, the Executive Director of FSA, expressed her appreciation for the removal of contributions. As of now, any business or individual taxpayer can apply to contribute any amount as long as the cap of $20 million has not been reached. It’s worth noting that there is still more than $19 million available.
Carr urged Georgia taxpayers to come forward and support their cause to provide essential resources and support to the young generation of the state. He emphasized the need for taxpayers to step up, just like they do with other state tax credits that are maxed out within a week of the application opening. “We need Georgia taxpayers to step up and help us further our impact across the state and help us provide young Georgians with the necessary resources and support they need to create a better life for themselves successfully,” said Carr.
