Being in foster care can indeed provide teens with numerous benefits and resources as they transition into adulthood. These resources are crucial in helping them build a stable and successful future. Below are a few key benefits and resources available to youth with foster care experience.
State and Federal programs for youth who are/were in foster care.
Chafee funds supports youth in foster care as they approach adulthood. This federal program was created to prepare youth for independent living and maintain normalcy for youth (ages 14-23). There are funds to support the transition to adulthood with IL classes, extracurricular activities, graduation expenses, housing, transportation, etc. Find out more at: www.dss.virginia.gov/fmf Talk to LDSS/FSS to Access funds.
Virginia's extended Foster Care program is for individuals wanting to stay in care after they turn 18. The LDSS will provide financial support and services until 21st birthday. Things like housing, education and/or job training assistance, and other independent living needs specifically for young adults. Youth will need to be working or attending school for 80 hours a month or have a medical reason not to. Find out more at: www.dss.virginia.gov/fmf Talk to LDSS/FSS to enroll
This program aims to increase the number of youth getting a drivers license BEFORE leaving foster care. Individuals in foster care that want to get their driver’s license can access funds to support them covering Driver’s Education Courses, Driving Lessons, DMV Fees, and Auto Insurance assistance. Contact your FSS or IL Coordinator at Local Dept of Social Services .
Youth not participating in Fostering Futures at any point between the ages of 18 and 21 may be eligible for up to 6 month of assistance is equal to the room and board portion of the maintenance payment. More information at https://www.dss.virginia.gov/fmf/housing.html Contact your FSS or IL Coordinator at Local Dept of Social Services or VA.ILP@dss.virginia.gov
Individuals in Foster Care received Medical Coverage through Medicaid. If you transition out of foster care on or after your 18th birthday you likely qualify for Medicaid until the age of 26. This would include Health, Vision and Dental.
Contact: In Fostering Futures - your FC/FF Worker, not in FF - Local Dept of Social Services where you currently live.
Higher education equips individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to secure higher-paying jobs and build a stable future. Many of these program can support youth in a 4 yr University, 2 yr Community College, Trade Program or short training to get a Certificate.
Individuals that transition out of foster care on or after your 18th birthday you likely qualify for up to $5,000 for education per school year (max 5 years). ETV Funds can assist with tuition, laptop, books, housing, transportation, childcare and other education related expenses. www.dss.virginia.gov/fmf Talk to LDSS/FSS to Access funds.
Great Expectations Program, youth with foster care experiences are paired with an adult coach at any of the Community Colleges throughout the state. You and your coach work together to assess your skills and interests, talk about your future, and make a plan for enrolling in college. Coaches are there to help you every step of the way with everything from filling out applications to covering your expenses to arranging transportation between school, home and work. https://greatexpectations.vccs.e
This Code states that public institution of higher education SHALL provide a grant for the payment of tuition and fees, and room and board for any Virginia student who was in foster care at the age of 14+. Each school have a contact to help students connect with grant funds email VA.ILP@dss.virginia.gov to get contact person.
Career Works provides WIOA services to youth, ages 14-24 with Foster Care Experience, who face barriers to employment across Virginia. Services include academic and occupational learning, Paid and unpaid work experiences, Entrepreneurial skills training, Etc. Go to virginiacareerworks.com/youth-programs to learn more.
Other Programs with speacial benefits for individuals with foster care experience.
Beginning at age 17, Care Coordinators provide transition planning support, education, and assistance with Independent Living needs (i.e. free cell phone, laptop or tablet, wellness center memberships, etc.) Contact insurance provider, ask to speak to your care coordinator.
Young adults can recieve assistance in covering their food cost to aid them in reaching their independent living goals, whether or not they decide to participate in an extended voluntary foster care program after age 18. Additionally, young adults are exempt from the rule that able bodied people only get 3 months of assistance without a job or school.
Section 8 Vouchers are allow renters to pick a home and pay 30% of their income for rent. Wait list for this voucher can be years long so get on a waitlist ASAP. Some areas have the Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) and Family Unification Program (FUP) are like Section 8 Vouchers with shorter waitlist. Some private landlords will offer “Affordable Housing” or “Tax Credit” units with discounted rates or income-based units. Former Wards of the State are exempt from the student rule (college stude
Please contact us if you have any questions about resources or how to access them!
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.