California LifeLine Foster Program

Transition to a permanent program/ New TPA

We are excited to announce the positive transition of our Foster Youth program to our new third-party administrator, Maximus, and the incorporation of Verizon Wireless as our service provider. This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing the support and resources available to foster youth. With devices being shipped directly to youth, we are ensuring that they have the tools they need to thrive in today's digital world. Collaborating closely with Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), counties, the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), and the California Welfare Directors Association (CWDA), we are committed to a seamless transition that prioritizes the needs of our youth. Please note that the cutoff date for foster youth to transfer to Verizon is November 30th, 2024. Together, we are fostering brighter futures!

Eligibility Criteria

The California LifeLine Foster Youth Program offers discounted phone services to eligible foster youth. Please review the following criteria to determine eligibility for participation in this program.

Eligibility Requirements:

  1. Residency:
    • Foster youth between 13 and 21 years old are eligible, with the following categories:
      • A current or former foster youth or non-minor dependent between 13-20 years of age, who was in foster care or extended foster care at any time on or after their 13th birthday.
      • A non-minor participant may continue to receive Foster Youth Program services for 6 months after they turn 21 years old.
  2. Proof of Participation in Assistance Programs (if applicable):
    • The Program will coordinate with counties to verify an applicant’s eligibility.
    • Applicants are encouraged to provide a verification request form from the Foster Care Ombudsperson’s Office (Verification Request Form | FYH). While the Program works directly with each county, if there are unforeseen delays in the approval process, the Program may utilize a verification letter in lieu of the county verification process.
      • The Program will also accept County Dependency Letters or Ward of Court documents.
  3. Signatures :
    • Minor applicants (ages 13–17) must have an Authorized Representative assist them in completing, signing, and submitting the application.
    • Non-minor foster youth may independently submit and sign applications.
    • (Coming Soon) - County Child Welfare agencies may submit applications on behalf of non-minor and minor foster youth, with the consent of the foster youth.

For more information or to apply, please contact your local county agency or visit our California LifeLine Foster Youth Program page.

New Website Announcement

Announcement: Launch of the California LifeLine Foster Youth Program Website

We are excited to announce the launch of the California LifeLine Foster Youth Program website, designed to provide vital information and services to foster youth in California. The new website offers an easy-to-navigate platform where foster youth, caregivers, and caseworkers can access important resources, eligibility criteria, and application information for discounted phone services.

Visit the new website here: www.californialifeline.com/Foster/en

About the California LifeLine Foster Youth Program:

The California LifeLine Foster Youth Program provides eligible foster youth with free or discounted phone services to ensure they stay connected with their support networks. This program is available to foster youth aged 13–20 and includes additional features designed to support their transition into adulthood.

What You Can Find on the New Website:

  • Eligibility Criteria: Information on how foster youth can qualify for the program.
  • Application Process: Step-by-step guidance on how to apply.
  • Resources: Access to support materials for caregivers and caseworkers.
  • FAQs: Answers to commonly asked questions about the program.

The website aims to simplify the enrollment process and ensure that foster youth in California have access to essential communication tools.

For more details or to apply, please visit the official California LifeLine Foster Youth Program website: www.californialifeline.com/Foster/en