For more than two decades, Paula has walked alongside children and families in the foster care system — fighting to improve stability, access to mental health care, educational opportunity, and long-term outcomes for youth impacted by trauma.

She worked for a nonprofit advocating for children in foster care, particularly those aging out of the system, until pandemic-related budget cuts eliminated her position. That work never stopped. Paula is committed to ensuring foster youth have the support they need to thrive.

• Guarantee healthcare: Automatically enroll foster youth in comprehensive health coverage and mental health services, regardless of their status or placement history.

• Prioritize housing: Give foster youth and former foster youth priority access to affordable housing, rental assistance, and first-time homebuyer programs.

• Create pathways to success: Build job training, scholarship, and mentorship programs to help foster youth succeed in education and careers as they transition to adulthood.

• Expand tailored support: Provide trauma-informed care, counseling, legal aid, and educational support designed for the unique needs of foster youth.