FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 21, 2021

Limited, one-time funding eases adulthood challenges for current and former older youth in foster care

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Older youth in foster care and former youth in foster care under age 27 may be eligible for one-time funding of up to $12,000 through the Education & Training Voucher (ETV) Program, or up to $2,000 in COVID-19 relief funds for education, employment, housing, transportation, life skills, or other services. September 30, 2021 is the last day to submit an application for the COVID-19 relief fund. The ETV funding is available while funds last on a first-come, first-served basis. Current and former foster youth can go online to view more information or to apply or can reach out for assistance to an Older Youth Transition Specialist.

“Managing adult finances and responsibilities are often a challenge for any young person and most parents step in to help,” said Jennifer Tidball, Acting Director, Department of Social Services. “For older foster youth who do not have a parent they can turn to for help, the Chafee Program offers that essential guidance and support they may need to have a successful transition into adulthood. This unique funding opportunity for current and former older youth in foster care is incredibly important and why we strongly encourage those individuals who may be eligible to apply for this special assistance to put them into a stronger financial position to achieve their education or career goals and to become or remain independent.”

To learn about more about older youth in foster care, visit dss.mo.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

The mission of the Department of Social Services is to empower Missourians to live safe, healthy, and productive lives. 

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