Brevard Family Partnership and our partners provide independent living services to youth and young adults in the foster care system. These services prepare the youth for adulthood and life after foster care. It is a requirement that youth aging-out of the system (those turning 18 years old without returning to the care of their parents or being adopted) have the basic life skills to function successfully on their own. Training includes but is not limited to: financial literacy training, household management, educational and career planning.
Once a youth ages-out of the foster care system, there are several services that he or she can access if certain requirements are met. These services include: transportation, housing and housing assistance, as well as emotional support.
Independent Living and Road to Independence
Many children in Brevard age out of foster care without reunification or finding a permanent home. Rather than leave these children cut-off and alone, Brevard Family Partnership taps state, federal and foundation resources to provide them with critical tools for a successful transition to adulthood.
Independent Living
Children from 13 until 18 years-old are eligible to receive life skills assessment and training. Youth participate in opportunities for experiential learning, in preparation for their transitions from care to independence. An average of 130 children are part of BFP’s Independent Living population.
Road To Independence
Eligible youth from 18 until 23 years-old can receive financial assistance to support educational attainment including High School or college degree programs, and vocational training. Nearly 40 young adults receive Road to Independence assistance, in Brevard County.
Transitional and emergency supports are also available to eligible youth to assist in establishing independence and to prevent homelessness.
Connected by 25
Additionally, Brevard Family Partnership was awarded a grant through the Eckerd Family Foundation to fund the Connected by 25 (Cby25) program. Cby25 is funded by the Eckerd Family Foundation and the Jim Casey Youth Opportunity Initiative through the efforts of CBC of Brevard.
The Connected by 25 (Cby25) program is designed to help vulnerable young people gain the skills and support they need to succeed as adults. Its mission is to help young people, between the ages of 18-25 years old, make a successful transition to adulthood as they leave the foster care system, in Brevard County. Assistance includes:
- Safe, affordable, independent housing;
- Dependable transportation to schools, work, and leisure activities;
- Continuing education opportunities;
- Meaningful and challenging jobs; and
- Practical life skills training in areas of finance, self-advocacy, and health care.
In 2007, the United Way of Brevard took the lead developing a community board and has assisted in the formation of valuable community partnerships, including working in tandem to create and manage programs that are beneficial to those they serve. Cby25 works with such agencies as the Brevard County Sheriff’s Department, Space Coast Area Transit, the Junior League of South Brevard, the Brevard Bar Foundation, and area Rotary Clubs to provide funding, training, and donated items.
2008 Report of Independent Living Services for Florida's Foster Youth