For any young person leaving childhood for adulthood, the autonomy of being an adult is an amazing – and overwhelming – thing. It is exciting to have so much control over your day-to-day life, but it is also a little scary to be in charge. This transition might be even more difficult to navigate for former foster youth who may not have a strong support system. Through programs like the transitional housing program and the independent living program in California, such young people can get the help they need while still getting their first true taste of freedom. 

The Key Differences in the Two Programs

If you are a bit confused about the differences between transitional housing and the independent living program in California, you aren’t alone. Many people are unsure as to the primary differences, but it’s actually pretty simple. With transitional housing, young people are provided with significantly more benefits than what is included with independent living. Transitional housing offers support from a social worker including help with shopping, looking for college opportunities, finding a job, and more. In independent living, it’s simply a stipend that is provided, and the young person is largely left to their own devices from there. Getting help paying for housing is certainly better than nothing at all, but it’s far from the level of assistance that transitional housing programs offer. 

Which is Better for Independence?

It might seem at first like an independent living program in California would be better for autonomy, since such a program is going to require the young person to do most everything on their own. But that’s not necessarily how it plays out. Without sufficient support, the individual in question may not successfully make the transition into adult life, and could wind up struggling with a variety of challenges as a result. Through transitional housing and the support it offers, a boost can be gained that will send the young adult into their life with everything they need to never look back. 

If you are eligible for the transitional housing program and interested in learning more, apply now. If you want to become a mentor for the young adults in the THP program, contact Children First Foster Family Agency.

Children First FFA is a private, non-profit organization in Northern California that is dedicated to helping change lives by providing a safe place for children to heal in a culture of love, acceptance, and consistency.