Question 1

What rights do I have as a youth in foster care?

Accepted Answer

Great question! Foster youth have rights that you need to know. Check out the Foster Care Bill of Rights below to understand what rights you have in care.

Question 2

I'm ready to ask out of care: how do I do that?

Accepted Answer

Great! You need to make sure you have a plan set up with your IL caseworker for exiting care. That includes solid plans on where you will be living, how you will make money, and backup plans just in case!
When you are ready, you will need to write a letter asking out of care to your judge and to attend an exit interview.

Discuss how to do so with your IL caseworker.

Question 3

What happens when I exit care?

Accepted Answer

When you exit care, you will have an exit interview to discuss your foster care experience and what happens next. You will learn about how IL Aftercare works and will be connected to your DCF IL benefits.

You will still be in contact with your IL Aftercare worker who will continue to support you as you transition out of care.

Question 4

What is IL Aftercare?

Accepted Answer

IL Aftercare is a way for Cornerstones of Care to support foster youth as they transition to independent adulthood. For six months after you officially exit foster care, IL Aftercare will be there to help you with resources, questions, and access to IL Aftercare services as you begin to take full ownership of your responsibilities.

Question 5

How do I apply for food stamps?

Accepted Answer

You can apply online at dcfapp.kees.ks.gov. You can also apply in person at your local DCF office!
More information can be found at the Kansas DCF Food Assistance FAQ's page.

Question 6

How do I get a car?

Accepted Answer

Great question. Check out this presentation on buying your first car Buying your First Car | cornerstonesofcareIL.
Talk to your IL caseworker about buying a car for yourself. Your IL worker can help you in your search!

Question 7

What is a Transitional Living Program?

Accepted Answer

A TLP is an inexpensive housing option available to Independent Living foster youth. It is supervised apartment style housing that is inexpensive, case managed, and designed to help you transition to living on your own. Check out Pathways Transitional Living - Cornerstones of Care to learn more about Pathways TLP, a Kansas TLP.

Question 8

How do I apply for FAFSA/what benefits do I get for college?

Accepted Answer

Foster youth have special consideration when applying for FAFSA, so make certain to note that fact!

Applying for FAFSA is a simple process. Check out the video below for an easy 2-minute guide on how!

Can I receive federal student aid if I was or am in foster care? | Federal Student Aid has notes on applying for FAFSA as a foster youth.

Some permanency outcomes for exiting care have different effects on what benefits you get for college tuition as a foster youth. Talk to your IL caseworker to find out what you are eligible for!

Question 9

How do I contact my Guardian ad Litum/Caseworker?

Accepted Answer

Knowing your GAL, caseworker, and IL worker's contact info is very important! You may be able to find that information in your past text, emails, or other correspondence. 
If you can't find any contact info, call 816-508-3500 to ask for what you need.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions