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Young adults between the ages of 18 and 23, who have aged out of the foster care system (i.e., were in foster care or subsidized independent living on their 18th birthday) have access to certain independent living programs offered by the department. There are three Independent Living programs for former foster youth: the Road to Independence Program; transitional support services; and after-care support services.
Young Adults Formerly in the Care
Road to Independence Program Information This is the premiere program that can potentially provide the largest amount of money to young adults. The maximum scholarship amount is $12,158.64 annually.
Transitional Support Services Information These services may include financial help, housing, counseling, employment, education, mental health, and disability services. These services are often used by the department to provide financial help for youth attending school part-time, and who are therefore not eligible for the Road to Independence scholarship program.
After-Care Support Services Information This program is also available to “assist young adults who were formerly in foster care in their efforts to continue to develop the skills and abilities necessary for independent living.”
Other Benefits for Young Adults Formerly in Foster Care Other benefits include tuition and fee exemption available when a student attends any Florida Public University; medical assistance, and the ability to continue living in licensed foster care.
Minor Parents in the Care of the Department of Children and Family Services
Independent Living Benefits Due Process / Fair Hearing Guidelines Any former foster youth may challenge any “adverse” decision by the department concerning the youth’s application for Independent Living program benefits. An adverse decision is any decision that negatively affects the interests of the youth. The typical decisions that are appealed are decisions that deny benefits, terminate benefits, or that set the amount of the benefit, based upon need. |
