Connecticut CHAP/CHEER Independent Living Program
About this resource
If you're aging out of foster care in Connecticut, CHAP (Community Housing Assistance Program) can help you live on your own. They offer:
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Help finding an apartment (DCF helps pay rent)
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Support with budgeting, job searching, and living independently
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A case manager to guide you for up to 1 year
If you’re working 40 hours a week, CHEER can give you even more support with work and housing.
Who can use this resource (eligibility)?
Referrals are only accepted from the CT Department of Children and Families (DCF).
A DCF referral packet is required. High school graduates 18–21 years old from the cities of Hartford, New Britain and Bristol, and also Middlesex Counties are eligible. Youth must be attending an educational program (certificate, technical school, two- or four-year college). Youth must be attending a full-time educational program (CHAP) or working a total of 40 hours per week (CHEER).