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Resources
Our Independent Living Resource page is here to help young people gain the tools, knowledge, and support needed to successfully transition into adulthood.
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We know that life after foster care or living on your own can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
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This page provides helpful resources for:
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Housing support
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Employment and career readiness
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Education and financial aid
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Life skills and budgeting
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Health and wellness
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Community connections
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These resources are designed to guide you, support your goals, and help you build a strong foundation for your future.
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Need help or have questions? Connect with your Independent Living Specialist we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Youth Engagement and Advocacy
A national network for young people in foster care offering peer support, leadership opportunities, transition tools, and educational resources. Great for youth looking to connect, learn their rights, or share their voice.
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🔗 www.fosterclub.com
Oregon Transition Services
A flyer from Oregon Department of Human Services outlining programs and supports available to youth transitioning out of foster care. Includes services like housing help, education planning, job readiness, and health coverage options.
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Find Your Local ODHS Office
Use this tool to find your local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office for support with foster care, independent living, food assistance, housing resources, and more. Search by county or city to connect with nearby services.
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Statewide Resource Directory
211 Info/Emergency Assistance
211 Info connects individuals and families in Oregon and Southwest Washington to local resources. Find help with housing, food, transportation, health care, employment services, mental health support, and more. Call, text, or search online for free.
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🔗 www.211info.org
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Drivers Education
A resource for teens and young adults to complete Oregon DMV-approved driver’s education courses. Offers classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, preparing youth for safe, responsible driving and helping them work toward obtaining a driver's license.
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Food Pantry/ Food Assistance
The WOU Food Pantry provides free food and hygiene items to students and community members in need. Located on the Western Oregon University campus, it’s a confidential and welcoming resource for anyone facing food insecurity in the Polk County area.
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🔗 wou.edu/foodpantry
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Oregon Student Aid/Education Support
The Oregon Student Aid (OSAC) Portal offers access to hundreds of scholarships, grants, and financial aid opportunities for Oregon students — including those with foster care or system involvement backgrounds. Create an account to apply for funding that can help pay for college or training programs.
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Education Support/WOU
WOU's Foster Youth Program provides support for current and former foster youth attending Western Oregon University. Services include academic support, scholarships, housing resources, mentoring, and connection to community resources to help students succeed in college and beyond.
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🔗 wou.edu/foster
DMV Services
The official Oregon DMV website where youth can access services such as getting an ID card, learner’s permit, or driver’s license. Also includes info on vehicle registration, test appointments, and REAL ID requirements — essential steps toward independence.
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🔗 oregon.gov/ODOT/DMV
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