Hawaii has an estimated 1,200 youngsters in foster care.

Another idea gaining momentum is raising the age that a child can continue in the foster program, from 18 to 21.  

"Eighteen, for any child is kind of young to find a job and find a place to live. So if we could increase that to twenty one, there would be more support for them until they get settled in adult life, and help them have a brighter future," said Keola.

"Upping the age will cost some money but will not cost  as much, because there is federal reimbursement and there is a much smaller number of people we are talking about," said family advocate Judy Wilhoite.

"The key component is the youth themselves have to petition to be in this program," said Human Services Director Patricia McManaman.

She said they also have to be working toward their high school diploma or be enrolled in a trade school or college.

Wilahoite said 13 other states have raised the age-out ceiling to 21.