Welcome!
Hello, young people! Below are some great contacts to help answer questions and resolve issues:
FosterClub has a dedicated team of folks to help you find what you need in Wisconsin. Call them at 503-717-1552 or email them here. They can help you find resources to help you transition to adulthood and connect you to leadership opportunities.
Healthcare for Former Foster Youth (FFY).
Did you know that former foster youth have access to free Medicaid after they turn 18 until their 26th birthday? Qualification for FFY to access Medicaid is not dependant on employment or education status. Check out #Healthcare FFY for more information about this program!- To apply in-person or by phone, you will need to contact by your local Income Maintenance agency. To find the address and phone number for your local agency, visit the Wisconsin Department of Human Services.
- To apply online, visit Access Wisconsin.
Wisconsin does not have a foster-specific application.
This means that, in order to start receiving Medicaid til 26 benefits, you will need to complete a general Medicaid application. For more information on this process, check out the “How can I apply?” page!
Wisconsin does not have auto-coverage renewal.
This means that you need to reverify your information each year in order to maintain your coverage. You should receive a renewal reminder in the mail each year. Make sure to follow the instructions on this reminder and renew your coverage. If you fail to do so, your coverage will end.
Make sure to keep your address up-to-date with the state Medicaid office, so that you do not miss this form!
Wisconsin does not have auto-enrollment.
This means that, if you are eligible for Medicaid til 26 in Wisconsin, you will need to complete a new application before you are able to receive health care coverage. For more information, check out the “How can I apply?” section!Wisconsin does provide coverage to relocators!
This means that, even if you were in care in another state and then moved to Wisconsin, you are eligible for Medicaid coverage until the month of your 26th birthday.BLOGS
Improving How We Support Young People in Achieving Permanency
By APetite1 — Jul 6, 2021
Written by Aleks Talsky , Member of the ACF All-In Youth Engagement Team Policymakers, agencies, and professionals continue to expand and develop best practices around achieving permanency for young people served by the child welfare system. Whether... Read more
Family is not always Biological
By BrandiRose — Aug 24, 2019
The most important thing in my life is my family. I spent over 2 years in care before being adopted two weeks before my 18th birthday. The whole time I was in care felt like a honeymoon. After the adoption, the relationship between my parents and I... Read more
Aging Out: Is It Worth Giving Up Adoption?
By sillychild18 — Aug 8, 2018
I do not let money stand in my way and neither should you. Health care and educational funding should be available for everyone, including foster youth, until age 26. As foster youth, we are like all youth: anxious to be out and on our own. However... Read more
RESOURCES
Wisconsin: Scholarship through DCF
Visit WebsiteThe Department of Children and Families (DCF) Scholarship Program awards scholarship funds for youth who have been in out-of-home care and are entering a degree, license or certificate program.Read more
Wisconsin Child Protective Service Complaints
Visit WebsiteWisconsin lists several departments and ways to file complaints on this website, including a generic form. If you need additional assistance, feel free to call Outreach at FosterClub (503) 717-1552.Read more
Wisconsin Independent Living Program
Visit WebsiteThe Wisconsin Independent Living (IL) Programs help current and former foster youth reach their independent living goals, providing services for education, employment, housing, budgeting and building a support network to assist youth as they transition to adulthood. Find your local Independent Living Coordinator Here: https://dcf.wisconsin.gov/map/ilRead more
Wisconsin Medicaid
Visit WebsiteMedicaid is basic health insurance that is available to foster youth or former foster youth who are eligible. The information provided should help you apply. Apply directly online for Medical benifits.Read more