Independent Living
We and our partners provide independent living services to youth and young adults in the foster care system. These services prepare youth for adulthood and life after foster care.
It is part of our mission and mandate to ensure that youth aging out of the system (those turning 18 years old without returning to the care of their parents or being adopted) have the basic life skills to function successfully on their own. We provide training related to a host of skills: financial literacy, household management, educational and career planning, and more.
Once a youth ages out of the foster care system, there are several services they can access if they meet specific requirements. These services include transportation, housing and housing assistance, as well as emotional support. We also access state, federal and foundation resources to provide critical tools for a successful transition to adulthood.
Independent Living
Youth ages 13-18 are eligible to receive life skills assessment and training. They participate in opportunities for experiential learning in preparation for their transitions from care to independence.
Additional Chafee Incentive Expansion Form
Chafee Funding Expansion Incentive Tip Sheet
Chafee Funding Expansion Assistance Tip Sheet
Extended Foster Care
Youth turning 18 years old may continue to remain in extended foster care until age 21. Learn more about our extended foster care program.
Road to Independence
Eligible youth ages 18-23 can receive financial assistance to support educational attainment, including high school or college degree programs and vocational training. Transitional and emergency supports are also available to enable youth to establish independence and prevent homelessness.
Driven By Youth Car Loan Program
Our Driven By Youth car loan program helps youth who have been in our system of care obtain auto loans by backing/co-signing the amount of the loan. The backed amount comes from a ˜loan risk pool” and is set aside until the youth pays off the loan. This process increases the chances a lender will approve a loan.
To be eligible for consideration, youth must be:
- Currently experiencing Florida’s foster care system or formerly in foster care and achieving permanency after the age of 16.
- Supported by Family Partnerships, the child welfare lead agency serving Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
- High school graduates (diploma or GED).
- Currently employed.
Youth must also provide:
- Two letters of recommendation, both from adults.
- Three most recent pay stubs.
- A detailed budget.
- A picture of their driver’s license.
Driven by Youth Application
Please complete the application to begin the process. Please note that this is not an application for a loan. This is an application for Family Partnerships to guarantee the amount of the loan to a lender should the youth default. Family Partnerships will only guarantee loans made by banks and credit unions or car dealers and on vehicles purchased through a reputable dealer.
If you have questions about any of these services or need more information, please contact us or email youthservices@fpocf.org.
