The Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) initiative makes Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) assistance available to Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in partnership with Public Child Welfare Agencies (PCWAs). Under FYI, PHAs provide housing assistance on behalf of youth at least 18 years and not more than 24 years of who left foster care, or will leave foster care within 90 days, in accordance with a transition plan described in Section 475(5)(H) of the Social Security Act, and are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless.
An FYI voucher issued to such a youth may only be used to provide housing assistance for the youth for a maximum of 36 months, with an additional 24 months of assistance if the youth is enrolled in a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. In addition to providing rental assistance, youth must be provided supportive services to assist the young person on their path to self-sufficiency.
OHA was awarded 49 Foster Youth to Independence Vouchers through HUD and is receiving referrals and applications from eligible families and individuals from Alameda County Beyond Emancipation partners.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently offering discounts on internet service for qualified individuals and households through the Affordable Connectivity Program. FYI Participants can apply for a discount of up to $30 per month for internet service here. For more information, click
here.
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