Educate Program: Tools & Resource Support

The Educate Program provides targeted tools and resources to help youth succeed academically and stay on track toward graduation, GED completion, and post-secondary goals.

Because every young person’s journey is different, requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with flexibility to meet individual needs.

Who Is Eligible?

Youth may be eligible for tools and resources if they:

• Are ages 0–24
• Are currently in the foster care system
• Reside in Orange, Osceola, or Seminole County

Youth do not need to be enrolled in a specific program (Educate, Empower, or Enrich) to be considered for support.

Requests are reviewed based on individual need, educational goals, and available funding.

What Can Be Covered?

Support may include, but is not limited to:

• Textbooks and required course materials
• GED testing fees and preparation materials
• School supplies (e.g., calculators, notebooks, pens, backpacks, etc.)
• Other academic-related tools that directly support educational success

All items must be clearly connected to the youth’s educational goals.

Laptop Eligibility

Laptops may be approved for youth who:

• Are 18–24 years old, and
• Demonstrate a clear academic need (e.g., enrolled in school, GED program, or workforce training)

Exceptions may be considered for younger youth based on individual circumstances and supportive documentation.

Funding Guidelines

• Requests are reviewed and approved based on educational need and available funding
• Individual requests are typically capped at $100 per item/request
• Not all requests are guaranteed; priority is given to needs that directly impact academic progress

How to Request Support

• Submit a funding request for review

Our Approach

We aim to respond in real time and provide meaningful support that removes barriers to education—while also encouraging youth to build independence, problem-solving skills, and long-term planning habits.