The hunt for stable housing can be uniquely challenging for young people transitioning out of foster care. Here are some options that could help!

Chafee Foster Care Independence Program (CFCIP):

• Provides funds to help youth aged 18-21 (up to 23 in some states) with housing, education, and employment.

Foster Youth to Independence (FYI):

• Youth must be between 18 and 24 years old.

• Specifically designed for youth aging out of foster care who are at risk of homelessness.

• Usually applied for through local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)

Family Unification Program (FUP):

• For young people aging out of foster care (same as FYI, but often broader in reach).

• Specifically supports families involved with child welfare services who face housing challenges that could lead to family separation or prevent family reunification.

Transitional Living Programs (TLPs):

• Usually available for young people ages 16-22.

• Includes group homes, supervised apartments, or individual apartments with oversight.

Supervised Independent Living Programs (SILPs):

• Designed for older foster youth (usually 18-21).

• Includes apartments, shared housing, or host homes with supervision.

Extended Foster Care:

• Available in many states for youth up to age 21 (or 23 in some cases).

• Provides continued foster care services, including housing, while youth pursue education or employment.

Supportive Housing Programs:

• Combines affordable housing with intensive case management.

• May include life skills training, mental health support, addiction treatment support and employment services.

• n-Campus Housing:

• Many colleges offer year-round housing or dorms for foster youth.

• You may need to advocate for yourself if you’re not enrolled in a formal program to support former foster youth on your campus.

Education and Training Vouchers (ETV):

• Can help cover room and board costs for young people (until age 26) pursuing postsecondary education or training programs though rarely covers full amount needed. This funding typically prioritizes tuition-related costs first and may only be helpful for housing if those costs are covered by other funds.

• Must apply annually.

Host Homes:

• Live with volunteer families who provide stable housing while youth work toward independence.

• Often includes mentorship and support services.

Pro Tips:

1. Take the Lead! Start the research on your own.

2. Connect with an adult supporter: neighbor, friend, coworker, church member, caseworker or ILP worker - ask for help locating housing options.

3. Take this document with you to prompt the conversation.

4. Call, email or post for FosterClub help!

TALK TO US!

Email: [email protected]

Call: (503) 717-1552 Post: app.fosterclub.com