The Independent Living Program (ILP) is a federally funded program which helps eligible foster youth between the ages of 16-21 prepare for the transition to independence.
Youth in foster placement who receive state or federal foster care funds are considered eligible for services during the time they are in placement and after emancipation from the system. A young person may be referred to ILP by social workers, probation officers, foster parents, other county ILP coordinators or by self-referral. A social worker is assigned to each participant in ILP for case management. The social worker meets with the ILP eligible youth to develop a Transitional Living Service Plan.
Services available to help young people prepare for adulthood include:
- Independent life skill classes
- Education and career planning
- Assistance with applications for student aid
- Help in getting a job
- Help in leasing an apartment
- Various activities-conferences
- Support and advocacy through the California Youth Connection.
Author: ILP staff
