Housing Resources
Finding housing can be a challenge for many college students, but options exist to make this easier for foster youth.
There are a number of housing options available to both current and former foster youth attending college. For some students, a college dorm is the best fit, while for others living off campus may be the only option.
Programs also exist specifically for current and former foster youth that offer affordable options with added support.
Youth Currently in Foster Care
Youth who stay in foster care beyond the age of 18 can remain with their foster parents, relatives or other caregivers. They may also be eligible to move into one of two options only available to youth 18-21. The youth’s social worker can assist current foster youth with accessing these options.
Transitional Housing Placement for Non-Minor Dependents (THP-NMD)
This program provides housing and case management support in either an independent living setting or with a “host” family while youth are enrolled in extended foster care. The cost of room and board is paid for and in some cases youth receive a small stipend.
Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP)
This placement allows a foster youth between ages 18-21 to live independently in a setting such as their own apartment, shared housing or a college dorm while receiving a monthly payment. Qualified youth can learn more through their case worker.
Youth Who Have Exited Foster Care
Transitional Housing Placement Plus (THP-Plus)
Youth who aged out of foster care after the age of 18 may be eligible for the THP-Plus Program. This program provides up to 24 months of housing and support for former foster youth ages 18-24. In some counties, youth attending school may be eligible for THP-Plus for an additional year. Youth live either in an independent living setting or with a “host” family. For a list of THP-Plus providers and county contacts Click Here.
Other Resources
College Dormitories
All 23 CSU campuses and 10 UC campuses have on-campus housing available, as do 11 Community Colleges. Additional Community Colleges have housing under construction. Students must apply for housing and strict deadlines apply. Foster youth qualify for priority access to dorms or other on-campus housing. Foster youth are also entitled to move into the housing that is open for the most time during the year and remain in housing over breaks (not including summer) at no extra charge. Check with your college’s housing department or foster youth program for details.
Private Market Housing
Finding your own housing off-campus can be challenging in some locations, but help is available. Your campus may have listings of available apartments as well as students looking for roommates. The Young Adult’s Guide to Housing offers tips for budgeting for, finding and keeping housing. For a helpful resource regarding finding the best roommates, download the Roommate Checklist.
