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Care, stability, next steps

Resources that help foster families and young adults move toward steady ground.

Aging-out help Local contact

Common funding options

These are the supports many youth and families ask about first when preparing for college, transportation, clothing, or household setup.

Education pathway

ETV funding

The Education and Training Voucher can support youth in foster care who are enrolled in college and need help covering school-related necessities.

  • Amount: Up to $5,000 each year.
  • Examples of support: Uber cards, transportation, electronics, and other necessities connected to college success.
  • Ongoing requirement: Youth should maintain at least a 2.0 GPA to remain eligible.
Local support

Chafee funding

Chafee funding can be useful, but it is not always dependable. It depends on the locality where the youth lives and whether that locality has access to the funding.

  • Possible uses: Household items, clothing, and transportation necessities.
  • Important note: Families should treat this as a helpful option, but not as a guaranteed source every time.

Preparing for aging out

Housing and adult readiness often require both paperwork and steady habits, so this section is designed to help youth plan ahead with clarity.

Housing support

FYI voucher

This voucher is a growing resource being worked toward broader availability in Virginia. It may allow youth ages 21 to 26 to access income-based housing for up to 3 years, and in some situations longer.

It can support housing in apartments, townhomes, or rental homes, but youth must meet application requirements and keep up with expectations after approval.

Before applying

What youth should prepare

  • Banking: A solid bank account.
  • Work or school: A job, or enrollment in school.
  • Income records: Current pay stubs.
  • Financial paperwork: Bank statements.
  • Savings: Enough money saved for a security deposit and at least the first month's rent.
After receiving support

How to keep the voucher

  • Check-ins: Stay in contact with the assigned worker.
  • Rent: Pay rent on time, usually between the 1st and 3rd of the month.
  • Bills: Keep utilities and other bills in order.
  • Growth: Keep building financial and mental stability so there is a solid foundation when the voucher ends.
College access

House Bill 700

Youth in foster care may be able to attend college with room and board covered at no cost. This is especially important for young adults who may not know the opportunity exists.

Families should still verify current details with the college, local worker, or support team before making final plans.

Community and advocacy resources

These resources can help youth and families with school support, advocacy, mentoring, connection, and local opportunities.

Community college support

Great Expectations

Available across community colleges to support youth in care with enrollment, financial aid, tutoring, and college guidance.

National advocacy

FosterClub

A nationwide support and advocacy network that helps youth with foster care experience find connection, voice, and practical information.

Virginia Beach support

Tidewater Friends of Foster Care

Offers local support such as tutoring, summer camp, and silent auction opportunities for youth in foster care.

Local point of contact

This section gives families a direct next step when they need a local contact for added guidance and referral support.