Foster youth
Foster Youth and former foster youth may contact Maria Chavez at (310) 233-4331 or email chavezmd@lahc.edu . As one of the foster youth liaisons, Maria can help connect you with support services both on and off campus and assist you getting the financial aid needed to succeed.
Grant Opportunities & Important Links for Foster Youth
- The California Chafee Grant – provides up to $5,000 to current and former foster youth
For more information on other services you may be eligible for, look at these sites:
CHAFEE GRANT
The California Chafee Grant Program, also known as the Education and Training Voucher (ETV), provides up to $5,000 per academic year to current and former foster youth for career and technical training or college courses. The Chafee Grant Program is a federally funded program and is subject to the availability of federal funds each year.
How do I qualify?
To be eligible:
- You must have been in foster care between your 16th and 18th birthday and not have reached your 22nd birthday before July 1 of the award year.
- You must be enrolled in an eligible college or vocational school
- You must be enrolled at least six units (half-time)
- You must enroll in a program at least one academic year long, if you are enrolled at a career or technical school
- You must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress
How do I apply?
File two forms:
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. You can file online at: www.fafsa.ed.gov
- California Chafee Grant Application. Apply online at: www.chafee.csac.ca.gov
What happens after I apply?
- The California Department of Social Services will verify your Independent Living Program (ILP) status
- The financial aid office will determine your financial aid eligibility
- Once the California Student Aid Commission has reviewed your FAFSA and Chafee Grant Application, they will send you a letter to notify you of your award status



