Foster Youth Resources

EOP RSP Foster Youth Pantry

The EOP RSP Pantry provides essential, free resources to support foster youth on campus, including snacks, non-perishable food, gently used clothing, and personal hygiene products. Our goal is to help ease everyday stress by offering these necessities in a welcoming and supportive environment. The pantry is located in Bayramian Hall 212 (Click here to see 3D interactive map) and is available to all foster youth students.

CSUN with a HEART

The CSUN Basic Needs Office provides support in areas such as housing instability, food access, emergency financial assistance, professional clothing, student parent resources, affinity community support, mental and physical wellness, and campus safety and security.

CSU Foster Youth Tuition Waiver Information

The California State University Foster Youth Tuition Waiver covers tuition costs only and does not include fees, housing, or other expenses. Please make sure to review the eligibility requirements. For more information, please visit the CSU website or contact CSUN's Office of Admissions at 818-677-3700.

Children's Center

The AS Children’s Center is a high-quality early childhood education program that provides a safe and nurturing environment while promoting the physical, social, emotional and intellectual development of young children.

On-Campus Housing

CSUN provides students with various housing communities on-campus that include The Suites, University Park Apartments, Learning Communities, Specialized Housing Options providing accessibility and gender inclusivity, and the University Village Apartments (Family Housing)

California Foster Care Ombudsperson Office

The California Ombudsman for Foster Care ensures that the voices of foster children and youth are heard and advocates on their behalf. They also assist students in obtaining foster youth verification documents, such as the Ward of Court Verification. For assistance, call the Help Line at 1-877-846-1602.

Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services Contacts

For support beyond campus, you can find contact information for the LA DCFS Independent Living Program, Transitional Housing Placement Program, Housing Services Team, Probation Team, Youth Development Services Team, and Transition Resource Centers.

Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services - Resources

Explore resources related to benefits eligibility, employment and internship opportunities, mental health, education, juvenile justice, parenting, immigration, LGBTQ+ youth support, and more.

Extended Foster Care (AB 12)

Learn about the option to extend foster care services until age 21, which can help you remain eligible for continued support and benefits from the Department of Children and Family Services.

Housing Resources – Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority

Access a directory of Interim Housing programs for individuals experiencing homelessness, including young adults (ages 18–24), general adults (18 and over), and families with minor children or pregnant adults.

Find information about free health care services—including medical care, vision exams, dental care, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and counseling—available to youth who were in foster care at age 18. Foster youth may qualify for Medi-Cal coverage until age 26.

CalFresh

Access the application for California’s food assistance program, CalFresh, which is part of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Former foster youth may qualify for CalFresh benefits and are encouraged to apply to help meet their nutritional needs.

iFoster

A nonprofit organization that provides resources, tools, and support to help foster youth and their caregivers thrive. Their services include access to educational tools, job readiness programs, technology, mental health resources, and everyday essentials. iFoster works to bridge gaps in support and improve outcomes for youth in foster care.

CalKIDS

A California state program that provides eligible students—including foster youth—with a free college savings account to help pay for future higher education expenses. Foster youth are automatically enrolled and may receive additional funds beyond what is provided to the general student population. The goal of CalKIDS is to promote college access and encourage long-term educational success by giving foster youth a financial foundation for their academic journey.

Chafee Grant for Foster Youth

Through this portal, students can view the status of Cal Grants, the Chafee Grant for Foster Youth, and other financial aid programs. The Chafee Grant provides up to $5,000 per year to eligible current or former foster youth to help pay for college or career training. Students can also use the portal to complete required forms, confirm eligibility, and update their school of attendance—all in one convenient place.

211 LA

A comprehensive resource and referral service that connects individuals—including foster youth—to essential community services in Los Angeles County. Whether you need help with housing, food, mental health, legal assistance, transportation, or crisis support, 211 LA can guide you to the appropriate programs. The service is free, confidential, and available 24/7 by calling 2-1-1 or visiting their website.

The Child Care Resource Center

The Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) provides support and services to families and childcare providers across Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. CCRC helps foster youth and student parents access affordable childcare, early education programs, parenting resources, and financial assistance. Their goal is to ensure that every child receives quality care, and every family has the tools they need to thrive.