Out of the 20,000 students who age out of foster care, only half graduate high school. Although 20 percent attend college, just 3 percent actually graduate. To put it into perspective, that’s 600 out of 20,000 foster care kids earning a degree. That’s pretty low, right? This is where Zoie’s Place comes in. 

Located in the Serve Denton Center on the corner of North Loop 288 and Market Street, Zoie’s Place helps young women, ages 18-26, transition into adulthood as well as provides a place for women to go and be an undergraduate. Originating in Dallas three years ago, the organization moved to Denton last year to accommodate the community’s myriad schools. 

One misconception about the foster care system is those who emancipate receive free college tuition. While tuition and fees are covered meals and housing are not. If the women attending a higher learning institute are unable to eat regularly and sleep somewhere, then the odds of dropping out increase. Zoie’s Place assists with the room and board aspect. 

With the help of local schools and other organizations, like Kyle’s Place or Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home, Zoie’s Place identify women who need a place to stay while they settle into adult life. They also exist to help women avoid human trafficking. According to volunteer coordinator Vanessa Rodriguez, one in four women who age out of foster care experience human trafficking. She was told by one of the ladies she worked with that pimps tend to prey on kids in foster care because they know no one is looking for them. 

“When I first became a part of this organization, I feel like the label on it was foster care or youth aging out of foster care, but working here now has made me realize… we are also working with girls that have experienced trauma in human trafficking, mental health issues, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and so many different areas that you wouldn’t think would be a part of it, but it is,” Rodriguez said. “The child abuse and everything they’ve experienced is in one human being that doesn’t have any support or anyone to help them.”

What are some ways to help Zoie’s Place? Monetary donations are always appreciated, but the organization also accepts everyday items such as laundry detergent, feminine products, or grocery store gift cards. Don’t have any goods or coin to spare? Host a fundraiser or drive to show support! The people at Zoie’s Place are eager to share their stories about the work they do and are happy to speak at local functions or gatherings. 

They also encourage the women to find mentors and take various life skills classes taught by different members of the community. Interested in becoming a mentor or teaching a life skills class (think how to prepare a tax return or basic cooking skills)? Contact Zoie’s Place and get involved with the work they do and services they provide. 

Zoie’s Place, 306 N Loop 288 Ste. 118, Denton, TX 76209

214.530.6200 info@zoiesplace.org  volunteer@zoiesplace.org