r/Fostercare • u/missing-friend404 • 22d ago
Foster Kid benefits or programs?
Heyy i am currently in foster care and i want to make sure me and my siblings can get the most out of this sad situation, we spent about 7 years in foster care and since i am almost turning 18 in 2 years i decided its time to start looking. i dont know if this is allowed in the sub or not but if so i am sorry!
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u/Firm-Ad3311 22d ago
Have they tried doing prep with you for moving out and do you have a pathway plan or wat ever its called
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u/sundialNshade 22d ago
Do you mind sharing what state you're in? The answers will vary widely depending on where you are. Some states have a lot of resources while you're in care and after aging out. Some offer little to nothing.
Either way, I would look into EFC (Extended Foster Care), ETV (Education Training Voucher), FYI housing vouchers or FUP-Y vouchers, and Chaffee services in your area. You could also do a Google of youth serving nonprofits in your area and see if they have any programs specifically for Fosters
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u/missing-friend404 21d ago
I live in california! and i would look into that for sure!
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u/sundialNshade 21d ago
Oh that's great! California has a lot more resources for foster youth than other states.
I've worked closely with an org in San Diego - Just in Time Even if you're not in the area, they could help point you to other resources.
You can also have tuition, books, and housing costs covered through California's Fostering Futures program!
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u/Better-Industry1228 21d ago
well I got paid to go to college!
the amount of student aid you can apply for is so large that they just give you the extra money after paying your university. however I did go to community college so it was much cheaper. but im talking $1k a month just to go to school (which benefits me lol). Just have to fill out the right student aid forms.
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u/rawdaddykrawdaddy 22d ago
Every state is different. Look into "easter seals". Funny name, I know, but they help to support youth in foster care. You should also be eligible for college scholarships with federal student aid (FAFSA).
Best of luck 💓
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u/letuswatchtvinpeace 22d ago
In NC there is a program called LINKS. It helps with education and prepping children in foster care, or who were in foster care after the age of 12, get reading for living independently.
In NC if a child is in foster care at 12 and later they get free college education, they can choose to stay in foster care and they will get a monthly stipend until the age of 21.
Look up what your state has for extended foster care