| The YWCA Santa Monica / Westside's Housing and Education Program provides a positive and encouraging environment within a supportive, caring, home-like setting. The residence is located less than a block away from Santa Monica College and public transportation (Big Blue Bus), which makes access to employment opportunities (e.g., 3rd Street Promenade) and recreational activities (e.g., Santa Monica Beach/Pier) a breeze. The house has free wi-fi, a full kitchen, tv room, computer lab and an onsite laundry room. Residents are expected to attend school full-time, work part-time, save for their future and attend life skills classes. The ultimate goal of the program is to help young women improve their ability to become independent and self-sufficient adults. | Criteria for Applicants | - Female emancipated foster youth, former probation youth and/or ILP eligible youth (verification required)
- Females (single, no children) between the ages of 18 to 24 (length of stay is 2 years) or 18 to 21 for ILP eligible youth (ILP eligible youth can enter at 18 and stay until their 21st birthday)
- Must demonstrate a need for housing
- Motivated to attend school
- Interested in working at least part-time
- Commitment to adhere to program guidelines
- Dedicated to becoming independent and self-sufficient
- Free of drugs and alcohol
| About Our Location | - Located in Santa Monica close to the beach, 3rd Street Promenade and Pier
- Employment opportunities available nearby
- Walking distance to Santa Monica college with public transportation available to other West LA campuses
- Beatiful home and safe surroundings
| Our Services | - Social support
- Case management
- Assistance with money management
- School and employment guidance
- Help accessing both mental and medical health care
- Life skills classes
- Transition planning and follow-up
| Application Process | - Phone Inquiry: Youth, mentors and agency and county social workers may inquire about the program by calling (310) 314-1466.
- Initial Interview and Tour: Visit the home and receive application package.
- Submit application and letters of reference
- Second Interview: Meet staff, residents and program alumni.
- Sleepover: Experience the program. Get a feel for the community, school and employment opportunities.
| Realizing Their Dreams | | Residents have attended UCLA, CSUDH, CSUN, CSULB, CSULA, Santa Monica College and the Art Institute of L.A. 100% of our graduates have earned a college degree or professional certification. | Resources | Former foster youth from Los Angeles County can access information about various resources through: | | For more information, contact: Maria Abenes, Housing Director, at (310) 314-1466, x 106, or |
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