Last Updated: October 6, 2009

Louisiana

State Coordinator(s)

Louisiana Office of Community Services/Division of Social Services
Celeste Skinner
Independent Living Coordinator
627 N 4th Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: (225) 342-4447
Fax: (225) 342-9087
Email: cskinner@dss.state.la.us

2009 Chafee Allocation

$1,429,741

2009 ETV Allocation

$480,778

Number of youth 16-21 (most current AFCARS data -2006)

747

State's Chafee Mission Statement

To provide youth centered services to assist our youth in being safe, independent, self-sufficient with permanent connections.

Who is Eligible for Chafee Services?

Office of Community Services, Office of Juvenile Justice and tribal custody

Youth 14 - 18 are eligible, who are in out-of-home placements.

Youth 16 - 18 who are in kinship care, out-of-home placements or adopted.

Youth 18 - 21 who voluntarily remain ‘in care’ who were in care any 9 months from the ages of 16 - 18.

What is the State's Definition of Room and Board?

Room and board is a monthly allocation to assist the youth with living expenses.

Maximum Age that Youth may Remain in Care

Under what Conditions Can a Youth Remain in Care Beyond 18?

Youth may sign a voluntary contract between the ages of 18 – 21. Youth must be in school full-time or in school part-time and working part-time. There may be exceptions.

Is the Extended Medicaid Option Available for Youth Until 21?

Yes

State legislation passed in 2008 for the Chafee option and the Department of Health and Hospital is developing policy and procedures.

Can Youth in Care Get Driver’s Licenses?

Yes

Does the State Offer Tuition Waivers for Foster Youth?

The Louisiana legislative session of 2006 passed a tuition waiver for foster youth; however, it was not funded.

Does the State Have a Youth Leadership Program?

Yes

Louisiana Youth Leadership Advisory Council (LYLAC).