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NextUp/Foster Youth
Welcome to Cuesta College's NextUp Program!
NextUp provides participating current and former foster youth with support and resources while attending Cuesta College. NextUp, is a supportive community committed to helping students succeed in their academic, personal, and career goals. NextUp believes in your academic success and is here to support you on your educational journey!
NextUp Eligibility:
- Be a current or former foster youth in California whose dependency was established
or continued by a court on or after the youth's 13th birthday
- A foster youth verification letter—sometimes referred to as a dependency letter or ward of the court letter—is required in order to receive services through NextUp. If you need help obtaining one, you can request it online through the California Foster Care Ombudsperson website. Additionally, the Foster Youth Services Coordinator can assist you with accessing this letter.
- Be under 26 years of age at the start of the academic year
- Enrolled in at least 9 units or have the intent to enroll in 9 units or more. Students enrolled in fewer than 9 units are still encouraged to apply.
NextUp Services:
- 1:1 Support
- Textbook Vouchers
- Educational Grants
- Free Parking Permits
- Transportation Assistance
- Housing Support
- Food Assistance
- Financial Literacy Resources
- Career Exploration
- Events, Field Trips, and Workshops
Community Resources:
- Family Care Network: Provides wraparound services to current and former foster youth including mental health services, housing support, and career/education support
- SLO Foster Care: Provides local resources to current and former foster youth