Youth in Care
Click through the tabs to learn more about the various resources offered to current and transitioning foster youth!
California Foster Youth Advocacy
The County of SLO is committed to providing foster youth with resources to promote advocacy and empower voices. There are programs that help elevate and support foster youth in their journey.
California Youth Connection
California Youth Connection (CYC) is a youth-led organization that develops leaders who empower each other and their communities to transform the chiild welfare system through legislative, policy, and practice change. Foster youth will be equal partners in contributing to all policies and decisions made in their lives. All youth in foster care will have their needs met and the support to grow into healthy and vibrant adults. Get involved! Make a difference!
California Foster Ombudsperson
Provides a voice to speak and act on behalf of youth in foster care and can provide information on the rights of youth in care. Call the Toll Free Help Line at (877) 846-1602 or email fosteryouthhelp@dss.ca.gov
Foster Youth Bill of Rights
Foster Youth Bill of Rights – Youth in foster care have a variety of supports and services available to them while in care, but in order to be successful and thrive, youth must also be aware of their rights. To support youth in making informed decisions about their lives, they must be educated about the choices they have.
California Lifeline
Eligible foster youth can get connected with a new mobile phone, charger, protective case, and a free monthly plan that includes:
- Unlimited talk
- Unlimited text messaging
- Up to 25 GB of high-speed data
- Up to 10 GB of mobile hotspot data
Who is eligible to apply?
- Current foster youth who are at least 13 years old, but not yet 18 years old.
- Non-minor dependents in extended foster care who are at least 18 years old, but not yet 21 years old.
Click here to learn more and apply!
Education
Current national research shows that children in foster care are at higher-risk of dropping out or unlikely to attend college without support. The county is dedicated to serving the educational needs of our youth and increasing graduation and college attendance rates. This page provides some of the programs and supports we have available to our youth in care.
College Preparation & Transition
California Pathways to College
California Pathways to College is committed to assisting former foster youth in reaching their educational goals.
College Planning Guide
College Planning Guide provides support to aspiring college students.
Additional Supports
- Youth between the ages of 16 and 24 have access to college support through the Independent Living Program (ILP). Click here to learn more.
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The CSUs and UCs provides a wide range of services to support incoming freshmen and transfer students who were in foster care.
Scholarships & Grants
FAFSA
Youth who wish to pursue college or vocational training may receive financial assistance by completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Click here for resources to help you fill out the FAFSA.
Chafee Grant
Eligible youth who are or were in foster care and demonstrate financial need may apply for the Chafee grant, which awards up to $5,000 per year. Learn more or apply here.
Cuesta College Promise Scholarship
The Cuesta College Promise Scholarship provides free tuition to eligible new SLO county high school graduates for two years.
Foster Youth for Success
Foster Youth for Success provides scholarships to help fund post-secondary education for foster youth. Scholarships range between $1,500 and $5,000 a year to pay for books and supplies, community college classes or university classes.
Additional Resources
This document provides students with key tips on applying for scholarships, as well as a list of private scholarship opportunities, including some just for students with experience in the foster care system.
School Supplies
California Community Colleges (CCC)
California Community Colleges (CCC) offers eligible current and former foster youth support and services that could include help with books and supplies, transportation, tutoring, food and emergency housing through either EOPS the NextUp program. Learn more here.
Foster Youth for Success
Foster Youth for Success provides scholarships to help fund post-secondary education for foster youth. Scholarships range between $1,500 and $5,000 a year to pay for books and supplies, community college classes or university classes.
Tutoring
- The County has partnered with Grade Potential Tutoring to provide K-12 tutoring to foster youth and their families visit their website here! Or contact Foster Support at (805) 781-1917 for a referral!
Emergency Shelters
Current and transitioning foster youth may face challenging situations, and sometimes need access to emergency shelters. This page provides informations about places that offer temporary respite to those who may need it.
40 Prado Shelter
40 Prado Shelter – Provides safe overnight parking, showers, meals, mental and physical health services and more. *FREE OF CHARGE* Minors must have parental consent to access services.
Phone: (805)-544-4004
Address: 40 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA
ECHO Shelter
ECHO Shelter – Provides food, shelter and supportive services. *FREE OF CHARGE* Minors must have parental consent to access services.
Atascadero:
(805) 460-7882
6370 Atascadero Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422
Paso Robles:
(805) 462-3663
1134 Black Oak Dr, Paso Robles, CA 93446
Employment
The department is committed to providing resources to address ways to help transitioning youth receive appropriate job training, learn job application and interviewing skills, and maintain a rewarding career.
Employment Opportunities
Workability 1 (WA1)
The Workability 1 (WA1) program provides paid work experience opportunities in San Luis Obispo to youth (ages 16-21) that are either foster youth or have an IEP. For more information view this flyer. To get involved, contact the following job placement specialists:
- San Luis Coastal Unified School District:
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- Mercedes Parker – (805) 593-3144
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- Lucia Mar Unified School District:
- Livia Signorelli – (805) 593-3152
WIOA Youth Program
The WIOA Youth Program is designed for out-of-school foster youth (ages 16-24) to earn industry-recognized certification, as well as receive paid incentives along with vocational and job readiness training. Through this program youth can participate in courses of their desired field of interest, and earn a sustainable job that can lead to a prosperous career. Click here to learn more!
Additional Resources
There are online resources to assist in the search for employment within the county, including:
Career Preparation
SLO Cal Careers
SLO CAL Careers in San Luis Obispo helps young adults (16+), adults, and displaced workers with an array of services including, but not limited to, finding a job, practicing interview techniques, career planning, or upskilling through training. They have tools and staff to help you find your next career. The Job Center can be reached at (805) 439-2557 or by visiting 3450 Broad Street, Suite 103B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 in the Acacia Creek Business Park. Click here to learn more!
Additional Resources
- Check out this flyer on Resume Building Tips
- Read up on Job Search Strategies
Family Urgent Response System (FURS)
Connect with FURS today:
Call/Text: 833-939-3877 E-Mail: info@cal-FURS.org Chat: iCarol chat
Website: https://www.cal-furs.org/ Flyer: FURS Youth Support Flyer (English / Spanish)
Family Urgent Response System (FURS) is a free, safe, judgement-free, and private space to vent and talk about your worries. You choose if you want to talk to someone over the phone or in person.
FURS is more than just a hotline; through FURS you have access to a local, in-person, response team. The response team connects both current and former foster youth and caregivers to immediate help with any big or small issues.
FURS is available to use during your time of need. FURS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
When should you contact FURS?
For issues big or small. You can reach out when you:
- Feel frustrated, alone, sad, or unsupported.
- Have a fight with a caregiver, roommate, or teacher.
- Are thinking of running away or hurting yourself.
Finances
Financial support, taxes, and credit scores may be confusing to navigate without help. This page offers some resources to help you in these areas!
Credit Reports & Identity Theft
Foster Credit Check
The Foster Credit Check website helps current and former foster youth check their credit for free and take action if they’ve been affected by identity theft or fraudulent credit use. The site offers tools to request your credit report, dispute errors, and connect with support — helping youth protect their financial future.
Credit Reporting County Contacts
The county provides two contacts within Child Welfare Services that can assist with credit reporting. Find the contact information below:
Sandra Jimenez – sjimenez@co.slo.ca.us
Tammy Brown – tbrown@co.slo.ca.us
Financial Support
Extended Foster Care (AB12) Payments
If you are in foster care when you turn 18, you may qualify for Extended Foster Care (EFC) through AB12, which provides monthly payments, housing support, and case management until age 21. To stay eligible, you must meet one of the following: be in school, working, job training, or unable to do so due to a medical condition. These payments help support your transition to independent adulthood.
Click here to learn more!
California Victim Compensation Board
Children entering foster care are considered victims of crime, including abuse, neglect, or exposure to domestic violence. CalVCB may provide compensation for therapeutic services such as counseling and specialized trauma-informed therapies. Click here to apply online.
Taxes
Filing taxes can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. These resources are here to help foster youth understand their tax responsibilities, claim available credits, and navigate filing with confidence.
Foster Youth Tax Credit (FYTC)
Eligible current and former foster youth can receive up to $1,154 (or $2,308 for qualifying couples) as a refundable tax credit. To qualify, you must be between 18 and 25 years old, have been in California foster care at age 13 or older, and meet the requirements for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC). Claim the credit using the FTB 3514 form when filing your state taxes. To learn more click here!
California Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
VITA helps foster youth with filing their taxes for free! If you’re looking for assistance, visit this website or call (805) 931-6308.
Additional Resources
- Filing your taxes might seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether it’s your first time, or you just need a refresher, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process and help you feel confident every step of the way.
- MyFreeTaxes.org enables foster youth to file federal and state taxes online for free, with guidance on claiming credits like the FYTC and CalEITC.
Food Security
Food is important for the proper growth and development of youth. Some may struggle with access to healthy options. This page provides some resources that may help!
Food Assistance
CalFresh
CalFresh provides monthly food benefits to eligible households to spend on food they need. Apply now here or learn more in English or Spanish.
- Those with CalFresh benefits may use their money at the various local farmer’s markets to buy local fresh produce! Learn more here.
Women Infants and Children (WIC)
WIC is like CalFresh in that it provides monthly benefits to spend on nutritious food! Learn more or apply here.
Market Match
Market Match is a program funded through the California Department of Agriculture that allows individuals to use their CalFresh/EBT at the SLO County Farmers Markets and matches up to $15 in Market Match tokens! Your bonus Market Match tokens are good for fruit and vegetable purchases. Spend $15 EBT ➜ get $15 of Market Match to spend on fruits and vegetables. To learn more visit the market match website!
Food Banks
SLO Foodbank
SLO Foodbank distributes food across the county. Learn about their schedule and eligibility in English or Spanish.
- 1180 Kendall Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
- (805) 238-4664
The Salvation Army Food Pantry
The Salvation Army Food Pantry has locations throughout the county:
- San Luis Obispo – 815 Islay Street
- Wednesday, 10 AM to 12 PM; Thursday, 2 PM to 4 PM; Friday, 10 AM to 12 PM
- Arroyo Grande – 1550 W. Branch Street
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10 am- 2 pm
- Morro Bay – 540 Quintana Road
- Tuesday & Thursday 1 pm – 3:30 pm
Loaves & Fishes
Loaves & Fishes is a non-profit organization located in Paso Robles that provides groceries and assistance to persons in need. The pantry is located at 2650 Spring Street, Paso Robles, CA 93446 and has regular hours of 2-4 P.M., Monday through Thursday. To learn more, visit their website or facebook!
Additional resources
There are also several non-profits within San Luis Obispo County that provide food and meal resources. Click here to see the sites and services offered!
Health & Well-being
The county is determined to maintain the health of our youth. This page provides accessible, confidential, comprehensive services in San Luis Obispo.
General Services
Health Care Program for Children in Foster Care (HCPCFC)
If you’re in foster care in San Luis Obispo County, you have access to free health support through the HCPCFC. This program helps you get the medical, dental, mental health, and developmental care you need. Public health nurses work with your social worker to make sure your health needs are met and help manage your Health and Education Passport. Click to read a brochure in English or Spanish!
Medi-Cal Program for Former Foster Youth (FFY)
Young adults who were in foster care at age 18 or older may be eligible for the Medi-Cal program for Former Foster Youth (FFY) until age 26, regardless of income. Medi-Cal covers care that is medically necessary. This includes, but is not limited to, doctor and dentist appointments, prescription drugs, vision care, family planning, mental health care, and drug or alcohol treatment. Learn more about the Medi-Cal program for former foster youth.
SLO Public Health Department
SLO Public Health Department provides low cost health services including immunizations, nutrition services, counseling and more! (805) 781-5500
Urgent Care Accepting Medi-Cal
If you’re a foster youth with Medi-Cal insurance, you have access to several urgent care clinics in San Luis Obispo County for emergency & non-emergency medical needs. Click on your region to see some options:
Central & Coastal Communities
South County
North County
Before visiting, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm that the clinic accepts your specific Medi-Cal plan. If you need assistance finding a provider, you can contact CenCal Health at (877) 814-1861 or visit their website at www.cencalhealth.org.
Reproductive Care
General Resources
- CAPSLO Health Services – all-encompassing reproductive health care for men, women and teens (805) 544-2478
- Planned Parenthood of SLO – provides low or no cost reproductive health services (888) 898-3806
- SLO ALPHA – pregnancy and parenting support (805) 541-3367
- Tree of Life Pregnancy Support Center – pregnancy services (805) 543-6000
SB89
Understanding SB89: Your Rights to Sexual Health Education and Care. If you’re a foster youth in California, aged 10 or older, SB89 ensures you have the right to receive information about your sexual and reproductive health. This means:
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- Education: You’ll be informed about topics like relationships, consent, birth control, and preventing sexually transmitted infections.
- Access to Care: You have the right to access health services related to your sexual and reproductive well-being.
- Confidentiality: Your privacy is protected when seeking information or services.
Your social worker or caregiver should discuss these topics with you at least once a year in a way that’s appropriate for your age and understanding. If you have questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to ask a trusted adult or your caseworker.
For more information, check out these fact sheets for your age group!
Ages 9 – 12 (ENG/SP)
Ages 13 – 16 (ENG/SP)
Ages 17 – 21 (ENG/SP)
Mental Health
Behavioral Health Services
The Youth Mental Health Services Division of the Behavioral Health Department provides a range of services for children and youth affected by mental illness, trauma, and environmental stress. No clients are denied access to services due to inability to pay. Discounted fees and sliding fee schedules are available based on family size and income. If you need to access Behavioral Health services, please call their hotline at (800) 838-1381.
Central Coast Hotline
If you are in a life-threatening emergency situation, please call 9-1-1. If you are in crisis, please call the Central Coast Hotline at (800) 783-0607. You may also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HELLO to ‘741-741’.
Therapeutic Services Accepting Medi-Cal
If you’re a foster youth in California with Medi-Cal, there are several online therapy services available to support your mental health needs.
Mindfuli
- Offers virtual therapy for issues like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
- Accepts Medi-Cal through various county plans.
- Provides flexible scheduling and the convenience of accessing care from home.
- Click here to visit their website!
Zencare
- Features a directory of vetted therapists in California who accept Medi-Cal.
- Allows you to watch introductory videos and book free initial calls to find the right fit.
- Includes options for online therapy sessions.
- Visit this website to explore therapists!
Inclusive Therapists
- Provides a directory of diverse mental health professionals who accept Medi-Cal.
- Focuses on inclusive care for marginalized communities.
- Offers both in-person and online therapy options.
- Click here to find a therapist!
National Center for Youth Law
The National Center for Youth Law offers a detailed information guide on how to access mental health services through Medi-Cal, including steps to find a provider and understand your rights. Click here for English or Spanish.
Mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness is a great way to take care of yourself when facing the unique obstacles and challenges in foster care. It can help better regulate your emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience
Below are some articles by Ron Huxley, a local therapist on practicing mindfulness:
Hotlines
Life can present unexpected challenges, and it’s important to have a reliable network of support when you need it most. Whether you’re seeking guidance, information, or someone to talk to, these hotlines offer a confidential and understanding ear 24/7.
Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
- Central Coast Hotline – Confidential support for mental health and suicide prevention. (800) 783-0607
- Mobile Crisis Service (24 hours) (800) 838-1381
- 24/7 Texting Hotline: Text LISTEN to 741741
- 988 Suiciude & Crisis Lifeline Talk or Text 988
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline dial (800) 273-TALK (8255)
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
Lumina Alliance
Lumina Alliance – Confidential support for survivors of sexual assault and intimate partner violence (805) 545-8888
Hotlines
- National Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233
- Rise Hotline — provides crisis intervention and treatment services to surviors of sexual and intimate partner violence — 24-hour crisis line (855) 866-RISE (7473)
- National Sexual Assault Hotline (800) 656-4673
Foster Youth
- Foster Youth Help (877) 846-1602
- Family Urgent Response System (FURS) Hotline (833) 939-3877
- Runaway and Homeless Youth – Confidential support for youth who have run away, are homeless, or are thinking of running away (800) 786-2929
Housing
Young people who age out of foster care rather than secure permanent placement may face unique obstacles as they prepare to leave care and begin their adult lives. In California, close to 31% of transition-age foster youth experience housing insecurity, so it is important that young people receive thoughtful transition planning and support. These resources provide strategies to help youth transitioning out of care, locate and maintain safe and affordable housing.
Foster Youth Housing Programs
Transitional Housing Program (THP)
The goal of THP is to help participants become independent by providing a safe environment for youth to successfully learn how to be self-sufficient. Participants can live alone, with roommates, or with an employee on-site to help them. The THP staff, county social workers and ILP coordinators support and guide them. Supportive services include: educational guidance, employment counseling, and assistance reaching emancipation goals outlined in a participant’s Transitional Independent Living Plan. The participant must also be involved in the Independent Living Program. For more information about THP, contact your social worker.
Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP)
Youth who agree to remain in extended foster care, between the ages of 18 and 21, may be approved to live in a SILP. Examples of approved SILP options include, but are not limited to: college dorms, staying with relatives, sharing an apartment with friends or renting a room. There are eligibility and participation requirements for this type of placement. If you are interested in learning more, contact your social worker.
Foster Youth Housing Vouchers
Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) Initiative
This initiative can provide housing support in the form of a voucher to young people aging out of foster care (or who have had foster care involvement) and are at risk of homelessness. The county has a limited number of these vouchers but, if you are interested in learning more, contact your social worker.
Family Unification Program (FUP)
This program provides housing choice vouchers to eligible youth who are between 18 and 24 years old, and who have left foster care or will leave foster care within 90 days. The county has a limited number of these vouchers, but if you are interested in learning more, contact your social worker.
Housing Resources & Guides
Independent Living Program
The Independent Living Program (ILP) is a free service designed to provide resources and support for foster youth between the ages of 16-21. This program incorporates their unique needs and culture to help them become self-sufficient following their emancipation from the foster care system. For more information, or to enroll in this program, contact your social worker.
To learn more, check out the ILP Brochure.
Minority Affirming Resources
We are determined to affirm and uplift our BIPOC youth through supporting and celebrating their diverse cultures. Below are resources that contribute to a more diverse and inclusive SLO:
Immigration Resource Library – A web page developed by the Youth Law Center that provides resources for children who are at the intersection of immigration, foster care, and/or juveniile justice.
R.A.C.E Matters SLO – A community focused on creating more Black-centered spaces in SLO and spreading cultural awareness.
Gala Pride & Diversity Center – Supports and empowers people of all sexual orientations and gender identities.
Northern Chumash Tribe – Offering a foundation for the Chumash people to revitalize their heritage and culture.
Latino Outreach Council – Supporting the rapidly growing Latino population in SLO.
AAPI SLO – AAPI SLO raises awareness of inequities while strengthening the existing AAPI (Asian American, Pacific Islander) community.
Parenting Youth
Being a parent while in foster care can be challenging—but you are not alone. This page connects you with local programs, state resources, and online tools designed to help you raise your child, build a stable future, and take care of your own well-being.
Family Resource Centers
In San Luis Obispo County, Family Resource Centers (FRCs) offer vital support to foster youth who are navigating the challenges of parenthood. These centers provide a range of services tailored to assist young parents in building stable and nurturing environments for their children.
SAFE Family Resource Centers
SAFE Family Resource Centers (Oceano, Arroyo Grande, Nipomo) are a community-based, school-linked, family-centered way of delivering and coordinating appropriate prevention and intervention services to youth and families in San Luis Obispo County.
If you would like to be connected to a SAFE Community Resource Specialist or set up a SAFE Intensive Meeting please click to fill out the SAFE Community Resource Specialist Referral OR the Safe Intensive Meeting Referral. If you need additional information, please email southcountysafe@capslo.org. To call one of the locations, use the numbers below:
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- Oceano: (805) 474-3690
- Arroyo Grande: (805) 474-2105
- Nipomo: (805) 474-3000 ext. 5147
LINK Family Advocates
Link Family Advocates (Atascadero, Paso Robles) support accessing food, housing, clothing, health care, and parent education.
- Coordination of S.A.F.E. Team Meetings to support children and families when they’re most vulnerable. These meetings are a collaboration with the family, school staff, agency partners, a family advocate and community organizations to help families overcome barriers and access services.
- Download The Link Brochure in English and Spanish here.
- To contact The Link call (805) 794-0217
CAPSLO North County Family Resource Center
CAPSLO North County Family Resource Center helps families navigate systems and locate resources.
- Offers free developmental screening for children 0-5 years of age, assistance with child care payment and navigation, accessing resources, increasing self-sufficiency, and programs that serve pregnant mothers and children.
- To get involved, call (805) 440-1878
Coastal Family Resource Center
Coastal Family Resource Center (Los Osos, Morro Bay, Avila, and SLO) provides resources and referrals to ensure the healthy development of children, youth, and adults.
- Offers walk-in referral and family support, parenting classes, counseling by appointment, and bilingual family advocates.
- To get involved email mmusgrave@slcusd.org or call (805) 458-5499
Financial Assistance
WIC (Women, Infants & Children) – SLO County
- Monthly food benefits, nutrition support, and breastfeeding help for pregnant and parenting youth.
- Available to any low-income parent under age 18 or those still in foster care.
- Services offered throughout the county with easy appointment scheduling.
- To learn more check out MyFamily.WIC.ca.gov
Expectant Parent Payment (EPP)
- If you’re in foster care and pregnant, you may be eligible for a one-time payment of $2,700 to help you prepare for your baby. This money can be used for things like clothes, baby supplies, or saving for the future. You don’t need to have the baby yet—just be pregnant and in foster care to qualify.
- Learn more and access the toolkit at jbay.org
- If interested, contact your social worker!
Health Care
CHCCC Women’s Health
CHCCC Women’s Health accepts Medi-Cal and offers services on a sliding fee scale, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to receiving care.
Services Include:
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- Prenatal Care: Regular check-ups, ultrasounds, and screenings to monitor your and your baby’s health.
- Labor & Delivery Support: Assistance and coordination for hospital stays, including emergency and planned births.
- Postpartum Care: Medical support following delivery, including mental health services and family planning.
- To schedule an appointment, text or call (805) 361-8400
- Prenatal Care: Regular check-ups, ultrasounds, and screenings to monitor your and your baby’s health.
Support Services
Adventist Health Navigating Motherhood Support Group
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- For new mothers who may have trouble adjusting to motherhood; Group meets every Wednesday from 10-11:30am; Newborns aka “Lap babies” are welcome; Register online
- Adventist Health Twin Cities, 1100 Las Tablas Rd, 3rd Floor Waiting Room, Templeton
- Contact: (805) 434-4569
French Hospital Mom Hour Support Group
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- Facilitated support group designed for pregnant women and moms who need additional support; Meets virtually on Wednesday from 10:30am-12pm
- Get involved by calling (805) 541-2229
Adventist Health Breastfeeding Basics Class
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- Free class meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of each month providing a comprehensive review for a successful, safe, and rewarding breastfeeding experience; Babies are welcome. Register online.
- Sierra Vista Auditorium, Sierra Vista Hospital, 1010 Murray Ave, San Luis Obispo
- Contact: (805) 546-7939
Pregnancy & Parenting Support of SLO County (PPS)
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- PPS is a perinatal resource center, providing resources for families specific to the needs of pregnancy and early childhood such as maternity and baby clothes, diapers, wipes, formula and baby food, nursing supplies, baby equipment (including safe sleep items) and new car seats.
- All of the services provided by PPS are free of charge and available for ALL families within SLO County.
- All services are by appointment only (Monday through Friday, 8am to 3pm) at 3480 South Higuera, Suite 100, San Luis Obispo.
- Call to schedule at (805) 541-3367
First 5 SLO County
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- Offers free kits for new parents including the Parent Guide, Numbers Touch-and-Feel book, What To Do When Your Child Gets Sick book, and more.
- Call (805) 781-4058 to request a kit!