What You Need to Know About Independent Living (IL) Providers

The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is here to help you prepare for your future. One way DCFS can help is with the Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood.

This program was made for young adults just like you. It has services and information you will need when you leave foster care, so you can get ready to be on your own.

If you are 14 or 15 years old: The IL providers can help you make plans for your future, show you how to get along with others, help you with school and many other things.

If you are 16 or 17 years old: The IL providers can help you practice skills needed to live on your own, help you plan for your future and many other things you will need to know.

If you are 18, 19, 20 or 21 years old: The IL providers can help you get the things you will need to know as you become an adult, such as helping you:

• Open a bank account and budget your money
• Find the services and programs you may need, including health care, food stamps, etc.
• Find a place to live
• Get ready to find a job
• Find training for a job
• Apply for a job
• Find a job
• Continue your education