Independent Living Skills

Participating in Peninsula Youth & Family Services' Independent Living Skills program is an invaluable opportunity for eligible current and former foster youth between the ages of 15 and 18. Funded by federal and state dollars and facilitated by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, this free program is designed to give participants the skills and resources necessary to achieve their independent living goals.
With a primary focus on empowerment and independence, we provide small pots of money to give each participant the financial assistance they need to meet their goals. In addition, they offer college scholarships tailored to individual needs. The curriculum of the program also encompasses a wide range of other essential life skills, including finances and money management, housing and tenant rights, employment and taxes, tutoring, IEP, and 504 planning, obtaining a GED or adult high school diploma, community connections, post-secondary education funding, apprenticeship opportunities, career planning, and more.
These life-changing services equip youth with the necessary skills to manage their finances, secure and maintain employment, develop daily living skills, foster healthy relationships and support networks, find safe housing, excel in high school or obtain their GED, prepare for higher education or vocational training, and advocate for their needs. The benefits of participating in Independent Living Skills go far beyond teaching basic life skills. 

Who is Eligible for the Independent Living Skills Program?

• PYFS serves current and former foster youth who are eligible for services.
• Those who are between 15 and 18 years of age and are eligible are served in the Independent Living Skills Program.
• Those who are between 18 and 23 years of age are served in the Transitional Living Skills Program.
• If you are under 18 years of age, call your social worker for a referral.
• If you are 18 and over, you can refer yourself for services or have another provider refer you for services.
• The youth is at least 15 years old, has not yet reached his or her 18th birthday, and is currently in Tribal out-of-home care.
• Youth are dependent and under the legal custody of DCYF for at LEAST 30 days after their 15th birthday

Please Note That Youth Are Not Eligible if:

• The youth is under guardianship.
• The youth is under age 18 and in a voluntary placement agreement.
• Youth is under a CHINS petition.
• Youth is undocumented.

We encourage readers to contact Peninsula Youth & Family Services to learn more about their Independent Living Skills program and take the first step towards a brighter future.