Lists four specific methods for use by child welfare practitioners as they prepare foster children to secure adequate and affordable housing once they become independent adults. First, provide early instruction (by age 16 at the latest) in basic housing knowledge, including: how to search for housing, how to set up utilities, how to get along with roommates, how to move belongings, and how to assert renters’ rights. Second, explore housing options and how to finance each option by designing a “wants versus needs” list and to plan monetary requirements for deposits, furniture, and basic household expenses. Third, develop and implement a housing plan that includes the impact of credit and/or criminal records, tenant rights and responsibilities, the use of vouchers and public assistance programs, and how to recover from homelessness. Finally, develop community-based housing connections by completing a detailed housing assessment of the community, educating the community about housing needs of young adults, and coordinating with school counselors and other youth-oriented programs to provide a web site that supports at-risk young adults. Further information is gathered at the numerous web site links and program references provided within each chapter and in the comprehensive Housing Resources and Financial Resources for Housing chapters. CONTENTS About the resources we suggest Helping Young People Prepare to Find, Get, and Keep Housing: Introduction Start Early to Build a Strong Foundation Explore Housing Options and Finances Make and Implement a Housing Plan Develop Housing Connections in Your Community Housing Resources Financial Resources for Housing Appendices Index
