Chafee services for Foster youth age 14-21
Youth in foster care face unique and difficult challenges as they turn eighteen and leave the foster care system. Studies indicate that they are less likely to finish high school and become self-supporting. They are also more likely to be homeless or to become parents at a young age. Chafee services strive to assist youth in the foster care system by offering benefits to eligible youth in order to avoid these circumstances.
DEAP services offered through the Chafee program are intended to help Montana foster youth get the life skills they need to make a successful transition into adulthood from the foster care system. By assisting youth in achieving self-sufficiency and obtaining future goals, DEAP enables youth in the foster care system create a healthy lifestyle and a successful future. Chafee services strive to assist youth in the foster care system to avoid homelessness, unplanned pregnancies and increase opportunities for furthering education, permanency and consistent housing.
The Chafee program encourages development of independent living skills to young adults aging out of the foster care system by providing:
- Life skills instruction
- Educational/Vocational Assistance
- Transitional living plans
- Life skills assessments
- Mentors
Who is eligible?
Between the ages of 14-21, currently in foster care, likely to “age out” of the foster care system, has aged out of the foster care system or has achieved guardianship or adoption after the age of 16.
How is a referral made?
Referrals are usually made through the Child and Family Services division. If you are wondering if you might be eligible, you can call Trish at DEAP by dialing 406-234-6034.
Where are services provided?
DEAP provides services in the 17 counties of Eastern Montana: Carter, Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, McCone, Phillips, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sheridan, Treasure, Valley and Wibaux.
Resources
Visit our the State website: https://dphhs.mt.gov/CFSD/FosterCareIndependence