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FAQ
Have questions about life after foster care, the IL program or transitioning into adulthood? You're not alone and we've got answers.
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Our Independent Living FAQ page is here to guide you through some of the most common questions youth have about housing, jobs, school, life skills, and more.
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Whether you're just starting your journey or already taking steps toward independence, this page is your go-to for helpful info and support.
Q: Do you have to be in foster care to access ILP Services?
A: You do not currently have to be in care to access ILP Services. However, you must have been in foster care and had your case closed at 14 or older had at least 180 days of a substitute care placement (foster home or residential services) after age 13.
Q: How do you access ILP Services?
A: If you are in foster care ask your ODHS caseworker to send an ILP Referral to Shannon Simich at ShannonS@polkyouthservices.com via the link at the top of the website.
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If you have left foster care and are eligible for aftercare services, there are two ways.
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1. If you are under the age of 18 you must have a parent or guardian. Call the Child Abuse Hotline 855-503-7233 and request an FSS case for ILP Services only.
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2. If you are over the age of 18, you can self-refer by using the link on our web page.
Q: How can ODHS access the ILP Referral Form?
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A: The referral form can be found on the ODHS Forms page. You may also find it on our website at the top or on the IL page drop-down, under referrals.
Q: I live in Marion or Yamhill County, but they told me to contact Polk Youth Services for ILP.
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A: Our agency is named Polk Youth Services, Inc, and we are based in Polk County. However as of February 2024 we have held the ILP contract for all of District 3 Polk, Marion and Yamhill Counties.
Q: What can ILP help me with financially?
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A: While ILP has various programs that can assist a young person in their goals financially, it is important to understand that our program is more than financial assistance. The programs that can help young people financially have various criteria and will be assessed on an individual basis based per client.
Q: What if I don’t live in Polk, Marion or Yamhill Counties?
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A: There is an ILP program in every county in Oregon and even in every state. Please see the link for the Oregon ILP website on our resource page. On that link you can access a list of ILP Providers in Oregon. You can also reach out to ILP.Central@odhs.oregon.gov to connect with the right ILP Provider in your area.
Q: Is ILP Mandatory?
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A: ILP is not mandatory for a young person to participate in. A young person decided if the program is right for them.
Q: I am on the ILP waiting list, is there anything I can participate in?
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A: Yes, young people on our waiting list can attend our monthly ILP groups and or events while they are waiting for their case to open. Please reach out to ShannonS@polkyouthservices.com to have her add you to the D3 monthly e-mail list with group fliers.
Q: How often do I have to see my ILP Specialist?
A: ILP is required by ODHS to see every young person on a monthly basis for at least 1 hour per month.
Q: What if I feel like I am not getting the services I should be getting in ILP?
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A: First please discuss your concerns with your ILP Specialist. You may also contact Shannon Simich the ILP Supervisor. You can locate her information on the team page.