HUD Northwest Regional Administrator Andrew Lofton announced in Seattle that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will provide $12,746,450 to public housing authorities through HUD’s Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) Initiative. The funding aims to help young adults transitioning out of foster care access housing assistance to prevent homelessness.

Acting HUD Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized the importance of supporting at-risk youth, stating, “Youth aging out of foster care are particularly vulnerable to homelessness...Every young person deserves a stable, affordable home.”

Richard Monocchio, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing, highlighted HUD's commitment to aiding youth transitioning from foster care, stating, “One of our most essential responsibilities as a nation is the duty to care for young people.”

The FYI vouchers target young adults aged 18 to 24 who have left or will soon leave foster care and are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

The Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) has been a key player in supporting youth exiting the foster care system. SHA has developed a successful model providing personalized services to help youth stabilize and work towards self-sufficiency. SHA's partnership with local agencies has enabled them to effectively support formerly foster youth in establishing independence.

Eligibility requirements for applying for the FYI Competitive vouchers can be found on HUD's website. Any questions regarding the FYI Competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity for Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 can be directed to FYICompetitive@hud.gov.