Independent Living Program

If you are a youth between the ages of 15 and 17 and are likely to remain in foster care, this program is for you. Washington State's Independent Living (IL) can help you get the skills you need to succeed in life on your own.

The IL program helps you get ready to live on your own by giving you information about:

• How to stretch your money
• How to get and keep a job
• Daily living skills
• How to get along with others and build a support network
• How to find and keep a safe place to live
• How to do well in high school or get a GED
• How to prepare for education or training past high school
• How to speak up for yourself and get your needs met

You can get Independent Living services through classes and workshops and through local agencies who can work with you one-on-one.

Eligibility Criteria for Independent Living Skills

1. Youth is at least age 15, and has not yet reached his/her 18th birthday, and is currently in Tribal out-of-home care or is a dependent in the legal custody of DSHS.
2. Youth is adopted from State or Tribal custody on or after his/her 16th birthday.

Please note that youth are not eligible if:

• Youth was adopted before the age of 16 years old
• Youth is under age 18 and in a voluntary placement agreement
• Youth is under a CHINS petition

For more information about Independent Living, email ILSKIDS@dshs.wa.gov or contact your local DCFS office.