Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) Program
The FYI Program provides Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) to eligible youth who are transitioning out of foster care. The program is administered by the HASA in partnership with the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in San Angelo, TX
Unlike traditional HCV or FUP programs, FYI vouchers are requested from HUD on an as-needed basis. HASA contacts HUD to obtain an FYI voucher each time a referral is received, so there is no fixed allocation of FYI vouchers available at any given time.
Referral and Application Process
- DFPS determines whether a youth meets FYI eligibility requirements, certifies eligibility, and refers the youth to HASA.
- The referred youth must apply online to be added to the HCV waiting list.
- Once the referral is received, HASA places the applicant on the FYI waiting list.
- When a voucher is available, HASA determines whether the youth meets all HCV program requirements, including income limits and criminal background eligibility.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the FYI program at the time of referral, the youth must:
- Be at least 18 years old but not more than 24 years old, and
- Have left foster care or will leave foster care within 180 days, in accordance with a transition plan described in Section 475(5)(H) of the Social Security Act, and
- Be homeless or at risk of becoming homeless at age 16 or older.
Program Assistance and Duration
- FYI vouchers provide rental assistance for a lifetime maximum of 36 months.
- Youth who have not transitioned to a standard HCV by the end of the 36-month period will exit the FYI program and no additional assistance will be provided by HASA.
Supportive Services Requirement
Youth participating in the FYI program must receive supportive services for up to 36 months, as outlined in PIH Notice 2020-28. These services must be provided by DFPS or another approved social service agency, and are designed to promote self-sufficiency and housing stability. Supportive services may include:
- Money management and budgeting skills
- Job preparation and employment readiness
- Educational counseling or continuing education support
- Nutrition education and meal preparation skills.