Help aging out of foster care in Kansas
We've found 6 places in Kansas for people aging out of foster care, and 6 that serve the whole state. Our volunteers haven't confirmed these yet, so a quick call ahead is worth it. Most of them help with benefits & cash (4), health & medication (3) and food (2).
Places in Kansas
Kansas 211
Free, confidential information line covering the whole state that points callers to food pantries, shelters, rent and utility help, health care, and job programs. Referral specialists answer live on weekdays; a searchable directory at 211Kansas.org works around the clock.
Independent Living Self-Sufficiency Program
Kansas DCF benefits for young adults who were in foster care at 18 or left custody through SOUL Family permanency after 16: Medicaid to age 26, a monthly living subsidy to 21, Chafee funds for daily-living costs, Education and Training Vouchers, and a tuition waiver at Kansas public colleges. Regional IL coordinators determine eligibility and open cases.
Kansas Legal Services
Nonprofit civil legal aid for low-income Kansans in all 105 counties, handling housing, protection orders, public benefits, expungement, and family law through eleven offices. One statewide intake line screens applicants on weekdays; an online application is open Monday morning through Thursday afternoon.
Kansas Driver's License and Nondriver ID Card
State office that issues Kansas ID cards and driver's licenses. Applicants need one proof of identity (state birth certificate, passport, or immigration document), proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of a Kansas street address; a P.O. box is not accepted. Credentials arrive by mail in up to 45 days.
Kansas Food Assistance (SNAP)
Monthly food benefits for qualifying low-income Kansas households, applied for through the DCF Self-Service Portal or by phone. The same portal handles cash and child care assistance applications.
KanCare (Kansas Medicaid)
Kansas's Medicaid program, covering medical, behavioral health, and substance use treatment for eligible low-income residents. Former foster youth qualify to age 26. Enrollment is free; apply online or by phone.
National lines that work in Kansas
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.