Wellroot Family Services on Wednesday proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the renovation and expansion of “The Oaks,” a supportive housing community designed for young adults transitioning out of foster care. The event, held at Wellroot’s Transitional Living Program property in Decatur, welcomed community partners, supporters and elected officials including U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson for a day of inspiration and transformation.

The completely renovated campus includes both upgraded residential apartments, plus a new community center designed to specifically promote healing, connection, and long-term independence. This expanded facility enables Wellroot to serve 29 young people at a time and approximately 40 to 50 annually, doubling the organization’s previous capacity.

“Young people who are aging out of the foster care system lack that family support network to wrap them with love and care as they make the transition to adulthood,” said Allison Ashe, president and CEO of Wellroot Family Services. “Their need is great for stability, structure and a community that believes in them. The Oaks provides more than a place to live. It is a launchpad for independence and a future filled with promise.”

At The Oaks, residents receive 24-hour wraparound support, including education and vocational planning, cooking and life-skills classes, personal finance instruction and mentorship. The campus is designed to give these young adults more than shelter; it offers the tools and confidence to become thriving members of their communities.

Rep. Hank Johnson, who helped secure $1.2 million in federal Community Project Funding for the renovation, joined the celebration and praised the program as a national model. “Our hope is for these young people to be ‘well-rooted,’ and set up for success in life.”

Additional funding came from DeKalb County, as well as from the Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation, local philanthropic partners and committed individual donors.

“It’s our incredible supporters, donors and elected officials standing behind us that have made this project possible,” said Brad MacAfee, Wellroot Chairman of the Board. “Our vision of providing a special place for what young adults need is now being realized, and we are expectant for what’s to come.”

Wellroot Family Services has been a cornerstone of care for Georgia’s children and families for more than 150 years. Formerly known as the United Methodist Children’s Home, Wellroot provides services ranging from foster care to family housing and transitional support for young adults.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Donors

This project would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of Wellroot’s community of donors and partners. Your investment in The Oaks is an investment in futures filled with hope. On behalf of the youth who now have a place to call home, thank you for believing in them.

To learn more about The Oaks or to support Wellroot Family Services, visit www.wellroot.org .