Navigating higher education can be challenging, especially without the right support. The Post-Secondary Education Services and Support (PESS) program is designed to help you, as a former foster youth, overcome these challenges by offering both financial and educational assistance. Whether you are pursuing a college degree or enrolling in vocational programs, PESS ensures that you have the resources you need to succeed academically and professionally. From covering tuition and living expenses to providing guidance and mentorship, this program is committed to empowering you to achieve your educational goals and build a bright future.

Program Benefits

• Provides financial assistance for tuition, fees and living expenses
• Receive a monthly stipend of $1720 to assist with cost of living
• Encourages higher education and vocational training
• Offers academic advising and personal mentoring
• Helps you to achieve stability and independence
• Prepares you for future careers with job readiness support
• Also, PESS young adults facing financial hardships (e.g., car repairs, uncovered medical bills) can access Aftercare Emergency Assistance funds.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this program, you must meet one of the following:

• Foster Care: You turned 18 while in the care of the Department of Children and Families and spent at least six months in foster care or a similar arrangement before turning 18.
• Adoption or Guardianship: You are at least 18 and were either adopted from foster care after turning 16 or placed with a court-approved guardian after spending at least six months in foster care within the 12 months prior to your adoption or placement.
• Post-Secondary: You’re going to a university, college, or trade school in Florida that’s eligible for the Florida Bright Futures program and are taking at least 9 credit hours at a college/university or its equivalent at a trade school.

Helpful Tips

• Stay on top of deadlines for financial aid applications.
• To qualify for direct payments, you must meet the criteria for managing your stipend by demonstrating the necessary skills and capabilities.
• If you want to go to school outside of Florida, you won’t qualify for PESS
• Make sure to provide any changes in your situation and complete necessary renewals.
• This program is available until you reach your 23rd birthday.

For more information or assistance with PESS, reach out to the Office of Continuing Care (OCC) at 850-300-HOPE (4673)