Carrying Hope Marked Ten Years of Service

The Austin-based nonprofit has supported over 40,000 youth and families impacted by the foster care system since 2016.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy

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Austin-based nonprofit Carrying Hope marked ten years of service this September, having provided critical support resources to over 40,000 foster youth and families. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Founded in 2016, the Austin-based organization Carrying Hope celebrated its ten-year service anniversary in September 2026. Since its inception, the group has provided essential resources to more than 40,000 youth and families within the foster care system.

Why it matters

The organization provides critical stability to foster youth, addressing the stark reality that approximately 50 percent of those who age out of the system experience homelessness within two years. Its programs aim to mitigate these risks through transitional housing and tangible support resources.

Carrying Hope has assisted more than 40,000 youth and families over its 10-year operational history. The organization provides transitional housing in San Marcos for six young adults aged 18 to 22 who are attending Texas State University.

The players

Carrying Hope

This Austin-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit focuses on providing resources and stability for children and families navigating the foster care system.

Texas State University

This public research university in San Marcos hosts the young adults who reside in the transitional housing provided by Hope's Home.

The details

The nonprofit offers various support initiatives, including Hope Packs, which provide items for a child's first 48 hours in a new placement, and Hair + Hope, which connects children with professional hair care services. Additionally, Hope's Home provides rent-free transitional housing for young adults pursuing higher education.

Timeline

  1. Carrying Hope began operations in 2016.

  2. The organization celebrated its 10-year anniversary in September 2026.

  3. A fundraising gala is scheduled for February 26, 2027.

Market Landscape

The organization's focus on transitional housing directly addresses the 50 percent homelessness rate observed among youth aging out of foster care. This initiative establishes a supportive bridge for young adults that contrasts with the traditional gaps in social services for foster care alumni.

Residents of the area can engage with the nonprofit through donations or participation in upcoming events like the annual gala. These contributions directly support the maintenance of transitional housing and the provision of essential supplies for children entering new foster placements.

The takeaway

The sustained success of this model illustrates the importance of multifaceted support systems for vulnerable populations transitioning to independent living. Targeted local programs can effectively reduce systemic risks like homelessness by providing specific resources such as housing and educational stability.

What happens next

The organization is scheduled to host its annual fundraising gala on February 26, 2027.

Further reading

Learn more about local charitable initiatives on our Philanthropy page.

More information

For details on the organization's programs, visit the Nonprofit mission and donation portal.

Source note: This article includes information reported by KXAN.

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Do you believe nonprofit organizations are the best way to support foster youth in your area?