Navigating adulthood is a significant journey for all young people, but it can be especially challenging for those transitioning out of foster care. Foster Care Transition Programs are designed to provide crucial support and resources to help these young adults achieve independence and stability. This guide will explore various foster care transition programs, offering a detailed overview of their structures and objectives.
Transitional Housing Placement Program for Minor Foster Children (THPP-M)
The Transitional Housing Placement Program for Minors (THPP-M) serves foster youth aged 16 to 18. This program operates as a foster care placement with the primary aim of facilitating successful emancipation for participants. THPP-M offers a secure living environment where young individuals can develop essential self-sufficiency skills.
Under THPP-M, participants may reside independently with departmental approval, or share accommodations in apartments or single-family homes. In shared living arrangements, a staff member from the housing provider lives on-site to offer supervision and support. The program includes supportive services such as educational guidance, employment counseling, and assistance in achieving emancipation goals outlined in each participant’s Transitional Independent Living Plan – a key component of their case plan focused on emancipation readiness. Youth are also encouraged to engage with the Independent Living Program to further enhance their skills and resources.
It’s important to note a change in funding for THPP-M. This program no longer qualifies for Federal Title IV-E and state foster care funding reimbursements under the Family First Prevention Services Act. Counties choosing to utilize THPP-M placements must now fund these placements exclusively with county resources. Furthermore, the rate structure is no longer tied to the funding formula in Welfare and Institutions Code 1403(a)(1)(A), and is instead determined by each individual county.
Transitional Housing Placement Program for Non-Minor Dependents (THPP NMD)
The Transitional Housing Placement Program for Non-Minor Dependents (THPP-NMD), formerly known as THP+FC, was established through Assembly Bill (AB) 12. This program provides housing options for non-minor dependents within Extended Foster Care, offering transitional housing and supportive services tailored to a Transitional Independent Living Plan. The creation of AB 12 was authorized by Federal Public Law 110-351, the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008. Detailed information regarding eligibility and provider requirements can be found in All County Letter 12-44.
The central goal of THPP-NMD is to equip non-minor dependents with the necessary skills for a successful transition to independent living. Supportive services are designed to assist with educational advancement, securing employment, and developing crucial life skills in areas such as financial management, interpersonal relationships, and daily living tasks.
HOUSING MODELS UNDER THPP NMD
THPP-NMD providers offer a variety of housing models to suit different needs and levels of independence:
- Host Family: Participants live with an approved adult who has been vetted by the transitional housing placement provider, offering a supportive home environment.
- Staffed Site: Youth reside in apartments, condominiums, or single-family dwellings rented or leased by the THPP-NMD provider. Crucially, one or more employees of the THPP-NMD provider live on-site, providing immediate support and supervision.
- Remote Site: Participants live independently in a single housing unit rented or leased by the housing provider. The non-minor dependent may be a co-lessee on the lease, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence while still receiving regular supervision and support from the provider.
STEPS TO CERTIFICATION
Organizations interested in becoming THPP-NMD providers should first contact the county in which they plan to operate to begin the certification process. Certification for THPP-NMD is managed at the county level. Prospective providers must also obtain licensure from their regional Community Care Licensing Division. Once licensed, providers can contract with county agencies to deliver the program to eligible non-minor dependents.
To connect with your local Transitional Housing Coordinator, please reach out to the Transition Age Youth (TAY) Policy Unit at [email protected].
Transitional Housing Program-Plus (THP-Plus)
Transitional Housing Program-Plus (THP-Plus) is designed for young adults who have exited foster care, including those previously under Juvenile Probation supervision, on or after their 18th birthday. This program offers housing and supportive services for up to 36 cumulative months, or until the participant reaches the age of 25, whichever comes first. The housing models and services available through THP-Plus are similar to those in THPP programs, but are adapted to be age-appropriate for young adults.
The primary objective of THP-Plus is to create a secure living environment while empowering participants to cultivate the life skills necessary for independent living. This is achieved through the development of a Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP) in collaboration with the young adult and their support network. The TILP outlines specific goals and objectives essential for a successful transition into adulthood, tailored to each individual’s needs and aspirations.
HOUSING MODELS UNDER THP-PLUS
THP-Plus providers can offer various acceptable residential units, including:
- Apartments
- Single-family dwellings
- Condominiums
- College dormitories
- Host family models
Important Note: It is critical to understand that publicly supervised or privately operated shelters, temporary accommodations with friends or family, or similar temporary living situations are not considered acceptable housing options under THP-Plus.
STEPS TO CERTIFICATION
THP-Plus providers are exempt from licensure, provided they have obtained a local fire clearance certification from the relevant county. Reference California Health and Safety Code, section 1505(l)(4) for further details. General information regarding certification standards can be found in the California Department of Social Services Manual of Policies and Procedures, section 30-920.
To become a certified THP-Plus provider, interested organizations should contact the county where they intend to operate.
To find your local Transitional Housing Coordinator for THP-Plus, please contact the Transition Age Youth (TAY) Policy Unit at [email protected].
CDSS Notifications Pertaining to Transitional Housing
For further information, you can refer to CDSS (California Department of Social Services) notifications related to Transitional Housing, including All County Letters and All County Information Notices.
This guide provides an overview of foster care transition programs, highlighting the different options available to support young people as they move towards independence. These programs are vital resources in ensuring foster youth have the foundation they need to build successful futures.
