NYS State‐Level / Major Programs

Here are several New York State resources for independent living skills and transition support for foster youth, with links and summaries.

Chafee Foster Care Program (OCFS)
Helps current and former youth in foster care achieve self-sufficiency. Includes supports for education, training, housing, stipends, etc. Office of Children and Family Services Chafee Program

OCFS Online Resource Materials / Youth Development
Guidance for developing/implementing a transition plan; youth resources for skills for independent living. Office of Children and Family Services OCFS Youth Resources

Supervised Setting Programs (OCFS)
For youth ages 16-21, approved to live independently in a supervised setting with support. Office of Children and Family Services Supervised Setting Foster Care Placement

Local / Organizational Support in New York City & Surrounding Areas

NYC ACS – Supervised Independent Living Programs (SILP)
Transitional programs (12-18 mos) for youth preparing to leave foster care. Covers education, housing, employment, skills, etc. New York City Government ACS SILP

Rising Ground – SILP
Transitional housing & supports, especially for youth with histories of trauma, helping them live more independently. Rising Ground SILP

The Foundling – LifeSet Program
Helps young people aging out of state custody with goals like housing, employment, education, daily living skills & building supportive networks. The New York Foundling LifeSet – The Foundling

The Foundling – Supportive Housing
For ages 18-26, history in foster care or risk of homelessness. Provides housing plus guidance, employment/education support, services to help build toward independence. The New York Foundling Supportive Housing – The Foundling

Other Useful Local Programs & Options

Northern Rivers – Supervised Independent Living
For youth 16-21 transitioning from foster care. Teaches skills like budgeting, cooking, public transit, as well as job & education support. Northern Rivers SILP

Toomey Residential Services (Syracuse)
SILP focusing on transition-age youth (17-21). Helps with education, employment, wellness, involvement in community, personal goal setting. Toomey SILP Syracuse

Brookhaven (Suffolk County) – Foster Youth to Independence (FYI)
Assists foster youth 18-24 who are homeless or at risk, with housing, education, training, financial workshops, etc. Brookhaven Town Foster Youth to Independence