Postsecondary Programs and Services for Current and Former Foster Care Youth in California

The Postsecondary Pathways for Former Foster Care Youth (PP-FFCY) study is a research project that focuses on the transitions of foster care alums to and through postsecondary institutions. Through the Ofice of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL), the PP-FFCY project team is conducting a comprehensive needs assessment report that: (1) provides a descriptive profile of Illinois foster care alums; (2) examines postsecondary access, opportunities, and supports for Illinois foster youth; and (3) addresses disparities in career and technical education (CTE) programs. Although the PP-FFCY project focuses on Illinois foster youth, it is beneficial to examine programs and resources for foster care alums in other states. Consequently, in this research brief, the authors highlight California postsecondary programs and services that support youth in care, in addition to young adults aging out of foster care. Outlined in this report is a comprehensive review of the general and foster youth demographic profiles in California, followed by an overview of various forms of student aid (e.g., national-, state-, and campuslevel support) available for individuals with foster care backgrounds, as well as a synopsis of foster youth CTE program enrollment.