Bay resident helps teens 'aging out' of foster system

Laura Geuther, a longtime resident of Bay Village and community volunteer, has assumed the leadership of Fill This House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the living conditions of local youth aging out of the foster care system. By supplying household needs for youth transitioning to independent housing, Fill This House is able to deliver support and comfort, while providing a fresh start, in a way that maintains dignity. Geuther is passionate and excited about providing support for these young adults. 

Many young people emancipate with the support of a long-term foster family and are able to transition smoothly. However, there is a population of foster teens who have experienced several foster homes and group facilities. They find themselves alone, without the support of a relative, adoptive family or foster family. Their possessions are few, if any. It is this group of teens, aging out alone, that Fill This House supports. They provide items such as bedroom, kitchen, bath and cleaning necessities.

By raising funds, purchasing items and conducting collection drives in the community, we are able to provide new household items for needy teens in independent living situations. Why new? For dignity. Teens served by Fill This House seldom experience the pleasure of owning new items.

When notified (by a case worker) of a young person “aging out,” the necessary items are delivered immediately. This includes a Bible. As a faith-based organization, Fill This House wants each young person to know that he or she is not alone.

Individuals or organizations may support this worthy cause either with financial contributions or by organizing collection drives. Donations may be made on the website www.fillthishouse.org.