Young adults aging out of foster care face some of the most vulnerable transitions into adulthood. In Knox County, youth exiting care often do so without consistent family support, stable housing history, or reliable access to mental health services. As a result, they are at heightened risk for housing instability, untreated trauma, unemployment, and crisis involvement. While transitional housing models provide critical stability, housing alone does not address the emotional and relational needs that determine whether young people can sustain independence.

TN Voices is launching a pilot initiative at Lumen Flats, a new transitional housing community in Knoxville, to integrate trauma-informed mental health services, certified peer support, and digital wellness tools directly into the housing environment. This model embeds an EMDR-trained therapist on site, connects residents with Certified Young Adult Peer Support Specialists who bring lived experience, and offers voluntary access to a digital platform that supports daily emotional wellness and connection to care.

The pilot has been selected for funding through the Reconstruct Thriving Youth Challenge, securing initial implementation support. TN Voices seeks to support planning, on-site coordination, youth engagement, and early implementation activities. This initiative strengthens housing as a meaningful platform for healing, stability, and long-term independence for youth aging out of foster care in Knoxville.