The John H. Chafee Foster Care Program helps young people in or formerly in foster care prepare for adulthood. It started in 1999 with the Foster Care Independence Act. The program gives support and resources to help with school, jobs, money, housing, and health. Learn more on the CDHS Chafee webpage.
In El Paso County, Chafee helps teens and young adults build life skills. This includes help with money, housing, school, jobs, and well-being. Learning happens through group and one-on-one meetings. These may take place in relaxed places like coffee shops or parks. The program is based on strong, trusted relationships. Youth must meet with their Chafee worker at least once a month.
You may be eligible if you were in DHS custody at least one day after your 14th birthday. You can stay in the program until your 23rd birthday.
For more information on the Chafee Program, contact Chafee Supervisor Courtney Daugherty at CourtneyDaugherty@elpasoco.com or 719-651-9467.
Caseworkers or partner agencies can refer youth to the Chafee program.
Young people can also refer themselves. Fill out this form and emailing it to Chafee Supervisor: CourtneyDaugherty@elpasoco.com
The Foster Youth in Transition program supports young people ages 18 to 21. To qualify, you must have been in foster care or noncertified kinship care on or after your 16th birthday. You must also have been declared dependent and neglected.
For questions, contact Courtney Daugherty at CourtneyDaugherty@elpasoco.com.