The Tennessee Department of Children's Services (DCS) acknowledges that many young people require additional support, guidance, and resources to transition successfully into adulthood. The Extension of Foster Care (EFC) program was created to provide this critical support.
This voluntary program offers services to young adults as they prepare for independent living. It is designed to help them pursue education or job training, find safe and stable housing, develop life skills, and establish caring adult relationships that last beyond foster care.
As stakeholders, foster parents, social workers, school counselors, and community partners, your role in sharing this information is vital. These young adults need your guidance to understand their options and make informed decisions about their futures.
Program benefits include:
- Education and training vouchers up to $5000 a year for college, Community College, or technical school
- Placement support or an independent living allowance to secure safe housing
- Life skills classes and leadership development opportunities
- A dedicated child and family team, including family service workers and court oversight, to help set and meet personal goals
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, young adults must meet one or more of the following:
- Be enrolled in high school or working toward a GED
- Be in college, a Community College, or a vocational program
- Work at least 80 hours per month
- Participate in a program designed to remove barriers to employment
- Have a documented medical condition preventing participation in the above
New Eligibility Expansion
Recent updates extend EFC services to:
- Young adults up to age 23, previously 21
- Youth who were in foster care on their 18th birthday
- Youth adopted from foster care at age 16 or older
Young adults may also leave care at 18 but re-enter at any time before age 23 if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Your support and communication can ensure that eligible youth, families, and caregivers are aware of these life-changing resources.
For more details and updated materials, please visit the resources listed below: