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:
    • Applicants must be current residents of California.
  2. Age Requirements:
    • Foster youth between 13 and 21 years old are eligible, with the following categories:
      • Minors (ages 13–17): Eligible while in foster care.
      • Non-minors (ages 18–20): Eligible while in extended foster care and may continue in the program for up to 6 months after leaving foster care or turning 21.
  3. Foster Care Status:
    • Applicants must be current foster youth in the California foster care system.
    • Required documentation includes a Ward of Court letter or a County Dependency letter to confirm foster care status.
  4. Proof of Participation in Assistance Programs (if applicable):
    • Participation in other state or federal assistance programs recognized by CPUC may also help in determining eligibility.
  5. Signatures for Minors:
    • Minor applicants (ages 13–17) must provide the signature of their caseworker or caregiver on the application.
  6. Extended Participation for Non-Minor Foster Youth:
    • Non-minor foster youth (ages 18–20) can remain in the program for up to 6 months after aging out of foster care or turning 21, facilitating their transition to the general California LifeLine program.
  7. Documentation and Submission:
    • All applicants must submit the required documentation proving foster care status, along with signed application forms from authorized representatives (caseworkers or caregivers for minors).

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