New California law gives foster youth the option to remain in foster care and receive services and supports until age 21!

Recognizing that 18 was too young for most youth to be without support, a bill was signed into law in 2010 giving eligible foster youth in California the option to remain in foster care and receive services and supports until age 20. The bill is called the California Fostering Connections to Success Act, and may also be known as Assembly Bill 12 (AB 12).

Starting January 1, 2012, youth are allowed to remain in care after 18, enabling them to maintain a support system through their transitions to adulthood. Participating youth can receive help with their education and employment goals, as well as have time to develop lasting relationships with caring adults. New housing options are also available to youth 18 and older.

Are you a youth or caregiver? Social worker or probation officer? Attorney or judge?  The information included here is a good start for anyone interested in learning more about this new law, including where to find additional information.

Join the After 18 campaign to spread the word about the new choices available to foster youth, and learn how a community of support will be by their sides to ensure that their futures are bright.

This Overview video is one in a series of brief, informational and youth-targeted videos on what California’s Fostering Connections to Success Act means for foster youth. For more specific information on placement options, eligibility requirements and options for youth in Probation, please click on After 18 Video under Information On California's New Law to your right.

Please note: In July 2012 the Governors budget included an extension of foster care benefits until age 21. Previously, foster youth were only covered until age 20. Some materials on this page were developed prior to the budget being signed. Therefore the age on most of the materials is listed at 20. Please correct or confirm that the coverage has been extended to 21 when distributing.

• Information on California's Law
• Fact Sheet
  Outlines the basics of the law, including eligibility requirements.
  En Español
• Youth Flyer
  A quick explanation on what youth need to do, where they can live, what their responsibilities are, and how to take advantage of the law.
  En Español
• FAQ
• After 18 Video
  A series of brief, informational and youth-targeted videos on what the new law means for youth including a general overview and more specific information on placement options, eligibility requirements and options for youth in Probation.
  
• After 18 Adult Conversation Guide
  A step by step guide organized by topic designed to help adults facilitate productive conversations with youth about their new options.
  
  
• After 18 Youth Conversation Guide
  A set of guiding questions organized by topic to help youth get started in talking to caring adults about the benefits of this new law.
  
  
• Finding More Detailed Information
  A list of organizations and websites that have more detailed, in-depth information, including training materials and curriculum.
• VALUES Poster
  The “What we believe – every young adult is fully VALUED” poster is a great outreach piece for offices and other places foster youth and supportive adults visit.
• Connect on Facebook
• Additional Transitional Resources for Youth