Youth Villages awarded the state a $3 million grant to implement the Youth Villages LifeSet model, the only proven case management program like it in the country. The program uses highly trained case workers with small caseloads to provide high-intensity services, including at least one face-to-face session with youth per week. Case workers help youth achieve their education, employment, housing permanency and independent living skills.

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Louisiana extended the age of foster care to 21 for all youth in care on their 18th birthday. The voluntary program allows the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to provide intensive services to aid in youths' transition to adulthood.

DCFS helps families become self-sufficient by providing assistance to meet nutritional, educational, and financial needs.

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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly benefits that help eligible low-income households buy the food they need for good health.

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Studies have found, without additional support, youth who exit foster care at age 18 typically experience poor outcomes at a higher rate than their peers in the general population, including reduced rates of completing high school, post-secondary or vocational programs, and increased rates of homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse, unemployment, early pregnancy and dependence on public assistance.

Louisiana continues to work with the Annie E. Casey Foundation, as well as nonprofit partners Youth Villages and the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption to implement its extended foster care program.

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Help us protect Louisiana's children. Report Child Abuse & Neglect: 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437) toll-free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week

SNAP applications can be submitted online and by mail or fax. Get step-by-step instructions and watch video turtorials on our "SNAP - How to Apply" page.

Help us protect Louisiana's children. Report Child Abuse & Neglect and Juvenile Sex Trafficking: 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437) toll-free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential.

DCFS is working to keep children safe, helping individuals and families become self-sufficient and providing safe refuge during disasters.