Youth transitioning out of foster care face significant challenges, increasing their risk of negative outcomes such as homelessness, unemployment, and lack of education. Recognizing these vulnerabilities, North Carolina offers crucial support through programs like the Nc Foster Care 18-21 Program, designed to provide extended assistance and resources to young adults as they navigate the path to independence.
The NC LINKS (Independent Living Services for Foster Children) program is central to this support system. NC LINKS is dedicated to empowering young people, including those participating in the Foster Care 18-21 initiative. This program offers services and resources tailored to different age groups and situations:
- Youth and young adults (ages 13-17) currently or formerly in foster care: NC LINKS provides support and guidance during their teenage years, preparing them for adulthood.
- Young adults (ages 18-21) in Foster Care 18 to 21: This specific program extends foster care benefits and support, offering a crucial safety net during the critical transition to full independence.
- Young adults (aged out at 18, not in Foster Care 18-21): Even for those who aged out at 18, NC LINKS provides resources and assistance to help them succeed.
Accessing NC LINKS and Foster Care 18-21 Program Services
Youth aged 13-21 who are or were in foster care can access NC LINKS services by contacting their local county Department of Social Services. A key principle of the NC LINKS program is active participation. To receive services and funding, young people must be willing participants in the assessment, planning, and implementation of their service plan. Even if services are initially declined, eligible individuals can later opt-in if their circumstances change.
The process begins with an assessment of the young person’s strengths and needs, conducted with their caregiver. Based on this evaluation, a LINKS Coordinator collaborates with the youth to create a personalized plan. This plan outlines goals, interests, and responsibilities, focusing on services aimed at achieving positive outcomes and successful independent living. Funding is available to county Departments of Social Services to support the expenditures for NC LINKS participants. Offering LINKS services is a mandatory requirement for County Departments of Social Services for all children and young adults in their custody.
If you believe you or someone you know could benefit from these services, reaching out to your local Department of Social Services and requesting to speak with the foster care supervisor or LINKS coordinator is the first crucial step.
Further Educational and Financial Support Programs
Beyond the core NC LINKS program and the Foster Care 18-21 initiative, North Carolina provides additional pathways to support young adults from foster care in achieving their educational and financial goals:
Education Training Voucher (ETV) Program: For eligible students involved with NC LINKS, the ETV program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for college or vocational training expenses. Eligibility criteria include:
- Being in foster care on or after their 17th birthday.
- Adoption from foster care on or after their 16th birthday.
- Entering kinship guardianship from foster care on or after their 16th birthday.
Apply to the Education Training Voucher Program to explore this valuable opportunity.
NC Reach Program: NC Reach is a post-secondary educational support program specifically for students who:
- Were adopted from NC foster care at age 12 or older.
- Exited foster care to permanent guardianship through the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Program (KinGAP).
- Aged out of NC foster care.
Apply to the NC Reach Program for comprehensive educational support.
Medicaid for Former Foster Care Youth: Young adults aged 18-26 who have aged out of foster care in North Carolina may be eligible for Medicaid coverage. This essential healthcare access can be applied for through the county Department of Social Services in their place of residence. Apply for Medicaid coverage to ensure your healthcare needs are met.
The NC Foster Care 18-21 Program, along with NC LINKS and these additional support systems, represents North Carolina’s commitment to empowering young adults with foster care experience to build successful and independent futures. By providing extended support, educational opportunities, and healthcare access, these programs aim to mitigate the risks associated with aging out of foster care and pave the way for brighter outcomes.
