EPIC Ohana: Youth Circle

EPIC’s E Makua Ana Youth Circle Program serves current and former foster youth in Hawai‘i who are transitioning out of the foster care system, into adulthood.  The program provides a group process for youth to celebrate their emancipation from foster care and to assist them in planning for their independence. Learn more by visiting: https://www.epicohana.org/youth-circle

Life after foster care can be challenging and confusing. The DHS Independent Living Program (ILP) helps young people become informed. develop skills, and build connections to strengthen their transition to life on their own, creating success at all levels. Learn more by visiting: http://www.ilpconnections.org/

The Independent Living Collaborative (ILC) – Hawai‘i is a statewide effort, coordinated through EPIC ‘Ohana, to develop and provide comprehensive independent living services to support and promote the successful transition of young people from foster care to adulthood. Learn more by visiting: https://www.epicohana.org/independent-living-collaborative

Enhancing the lives of youth who are at risk, in foster care, or have been abused or neglected Enhancement grants are available to improve and enhance the lives of children in foster care or children who have been abused or neglected. Activities and items funded can include tutors, summer school tuition, self-esteem programs such as sports, dance, scouting, martial arts, music, special events (proms, graduation, travel), and special projects such as back to school items. Learn more by visiting: www.fostercareresources808.org/enhancements

The Initiative works to ensure that young people who’ve experienced foster care — primarily those between ages 14 and 26 — have the relationships, resources and opportunities they need for success. We do this by working with public and private partners on the state and local level to improve policies and practices, promote youth voice and engagement, apply evaluation and research, and create community partnerships.  Our work creates opportunities for young people to achieve positive outcomes in permanency, education, employment, housing, health, financial capability, and social capital. Learn more by visiting: www.hihopes.org

Attend our financial literacy courses and learn about credit, money management, and how to save for the future! When you complete our courses, you will earn $140, get a free kindle tablet (while supplies last), and be enrolled in HI H.O.P.E.S. Match. Participants must attend all classes. You are eligible for this program if you are between the age of 17-25 and spent time in foster care after the age of 14. 

Learn more by contacting Marissa at (808)748-7914 or ming@epicohana.org 

Medical coverage is a basic necessity and critical for young people to enjoy healthy and productive lives. Many young people who experience foster care are at greater risks for exposure to sexual abuse, domestic violence, drug usage and mental health issues which include anxiety, depression and PTSD. Obtaining and maintaining medical coverage should be a priority for young people and the adults that work with them, especially as they transition from foster care to adulthood. Learn more by visiting: http://www.poweredtil26.org/home.html

Imua Kākou is a program in Hawai`i that helps young adults who exit foster care at 18 years of age or older to build successful futures. Sign up for more information. Call 1-844-588-IMUA (1-844-588-4682) if you have any questions or if you would like more information about Imua Kākou. Learn more by visiting: https://www.imua21.org/

Helps meet living expenses while attending an accredited academic or vocational institution of higher learning. Benefits of $676 per month may be provided for up to 60 months from age 18 until age 27. Learn more by visiting: www.shakatown.com