EOP&S

NEXTUP

NextUP formerly known as COOPERATING AGENCIES FOSTER YOUTH EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT (CAFYES)

The purpose of NextUP/CAFYES is to strengthen the capacity of community colleges to support the higher education success, health and well-being of current and former foster youth who are enrolled. Our goal is to provide students with the resources and tools needed to be successful at the college level. Nextup/CAFYES students are supported by caring and understanding staff members who empower and encourage them to not give up.

Program Eligibility

Be a resident of California, or qualify for the AB540 exemption waiver, as determined by the Admission and Records Office
Dependency was established or continued by the court on or after a student’s 13th birthday
Dependency Verification Letter (also known as Ward of the Court Letter)
Be 25 years of age or younger at the beginning of the academic year
Be eligible to receive a California College Promise Grant (Method A or B)
Be a current or prospective student at Los Angeles Mission College
Student must be enrolled in at least 9 units at the time of acceptance

Verify Your Status as a Foster Youth

To receive NextUP services, you will need to verify your status as a current or former foster youth. To do so, you will need to provide us with your Ward of the Court (WOC) Letter.
You can request one by calling the Foster Care Ombudsman’s Office at (877) 846-1602 or by calling the Foster Care Support Services Bureau at (916) 651-7465.

If you are unable to obtain a WOC, a NextUP/CAFYES staff can help you obtain one. For more information please contact:

Mardeza Armenta
@email
(818) 364-7890

NextUP Services

Counseling and educational planning
Book Vouchers
Meal Assistance
Cash grants for education-related expenses
Transportation Assistance
Specialized workshops on study skills, transfer requirements, time management, resume writing and much more.
Tutoring
Field trips to local colleges and universities
School supplies including notebooks, paper, backpacks, and calculators.
Supplies for personal needs that support attendance at college
EOPS/CAFYES community assistance including networking, family activities, and support groups.

Current and former foster youth may also receive services from our Guardian Scholars Program at Los Angeles Mission College. For more information please contact:

Maria Granados
@email
(818) 336-1108 (call or text)
Guardian Scholars Webpage