Voluntary Extension of Care (VEC)

The Voluntary Extension of Care (VEC) Program supports young adults from ages 18-20 who are in DCYF care and want continued help as they begin their adult lives. Any young adults who left DCYF care when they were 18 who wants to come back to DCYF is welcome to do so as long as they are under 21. 

The VEC program’s goal is to support young people in becoming self-sufficient, independent, and thriving adults. The program is youth-driven where the young adult, with the assistance of a social worker, works on setting their own goals for housing, education, employment, emotional support systems, and future success. DCYF provides financial assistance for housing as well as money to help with the youth's personal needs throughout their participation in this program.

To ensure the youth’s wellbeing through the VEC program, DCYF works in partnership with the Rhode Island Family Court, the Office of the Child Advocate, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and other agencies to aid young adults as they work to make these transitions by providing access to other supports and services. Youth can speak to their social workers regarding contacting their assigned eligibility tech to confirm medical status until the age of 26. Youth not eligible for Chafee can contact the Department of Health Services at 1-855-840-4774 with questions about health coverage, or the DHS Call Center at 1-855-MY-RIDHS (1-855-697-4347).

Download the attached Voluntary Extension of Care brochure to learn more about the VEC program.