Foster youth

Foster Youth and former foster youth may contact Maria Chavez at (310) 233-4331 or email chavezmd@lahc.edu . As one of the foster youth liaisons, Maria can help connect you with support services both on and off campus and assist you getting the financial aid needed to succeed.

Grant Opportunities & Important Links for Foster Youth

The California Chafee Grant – provides up to $5,000 to current and former foster youth

For more information on other services you may be eligible for, look at these sites:

www.ilponline.org

www.layouth.com

CHAFEE GRANT

The California Chafee Grant Program, also known as the Education and Training Voucher (ETV), provides up to $5,000 per academic year to current and former foster youth for career and technical training or college courses. The Chafee Grant Program is a federally funded program and is subject to the availability of federal funds each year.

How do I qualify?

To be eligible:

You must have been in foster care between your 16^th and 18^th birthday and not have reached your 22^nd birthday before July 1 of the award year.
You must be enrolled in an eligible college or vocational school
You must be enrolled at least six units (half-time)
You must enroll in a program at least one academic year long, if you are enrolled at a career or technical school
You must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress

How do I apply?

File two forms:

Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. You can file online at: www.fafsa.ed.gov
California Chafee Grant Application. Apply online at: www.chafee.csac.ca.gov

What happens after I apply?

The California Department of Social Services will verify your Independent Living Program (ILP) status
The financial aid office will determine your financial aid eligibility
Once the California Student Aid Commission has reviewed your FAFSA and Chafee Grant Application, they will send you a letter to notify you of your award status