HUD Allocates $800,000 to Public Housing Authorities as Part of Foster Youth to Independence Initiative

HUD's Foster Youth to Independence initiative provides housing choice vouchers for vulnerable youth exiting foster care.

WASHINGTON - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced $800,000 in funding for 18 public housing authorities (PHAs) in 12 different states, totaling 84 vouchers. This funding opportunity is part of the Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) initiative, which addresses former foster youths experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Under the FYI initiative, housing vouchers will be provided to youth aged 18-24 (who have not reached their 25^th birthday) who have left foster care or will leave foster care within 90 days. The vouchers are non-competitive and awarded on a rolling basis. View all PHA awardees announced today here.

“Homelessness is no way for a young person aging out of foster care to enter adulthood,” said Secretary Marcia L. Fudge. “The funding announced today will allow local housing authorities to help young people find housing, stay off the streets, and build a foundation for a good life.”

The FYI initiative is a collaborative effort.  PHAs work in collaboration with public child welfare agencies (PCWAs) and other community organizations (serving this population) to provide a holistic approach to help the youth obtain self-sufficiency.

More information about eligibility requirements can be found in PIH Notice 2023-04. PHAs can submit a request using the PHA's Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) Application Request Form.