Education & Services

Accessing Education and Services for Young Adults

 Start planning early.

 Talk with youth about their lives, goals, interests, and dreams.

 Make a plan for education, work, and housing.

 Talk with the school counselor about education options after high school.

 Review the high school transcript. Check to see that the student has earned all the credits and taken classes needed for graduation and college admissions.

 Ask about financial aid and scholarships. Get the applications and send them in.

 Take the GED tests.

 Take the college entrance exams—SAT and ACT Assessment.

 Request applications for colleges. Check the deadlines and send them in on time!

 Consider vocational education—what are strengths, interests and goals of the young person?

 Participate in transition planning for students with disabilities.

 Make applications and requests for services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.

 Create connections between schools, mental health, and other agencies.

 Find job shadowing opportunities and mentors.

Young Adults Benefits

Young Adults have benefits that are available (only to people 18 years and older.)

1. Food stamps

Young adults living independently may be eligible for food stamps. Contact the local DSHS Community Services Office to make an application. (Youth under the age of 18 may also be eligible for food stamps if they meet certain requirements. Contact the local DSHS Community Services Office to find out more information.)

2. DSHS Home and Community Services

Division Young adults may be eligible for support with housing and other services to support self-sufficiency.

For example, in home services are available for disabled adults who would otherwise have to be in a hospital or institution without the support. Ask the local DSHS Community Services office if the young person with disabilities can get these services through such programs as CHORE, COPES and Medicaid Personal Care.

3. Pregnant women

For young women who are pregnant, there are medical and financial resources available. Contact the local DSHS Community Services Office for more information.