The information below is intended to support teen's transitions into adulthood from a variety of home circumstances including those aging out of foster care or who are experiencing homelessness. More resources on supporting homeless teens can be found on the Texas Network of Youth Services, which has life skills guides and additional information for youth. If you have a support need or question you don't see listed below, reach out to us and ask to speak with a Teen Librarian, and we can help you find the resources you need.
Personal state ID or driver’s license (plus a photocopy in case they are lost)
Immunization records
Any medical records, especially anything involving a previous assessment, evaluation, diagnosis, medication, names and contact information for any medical providers who write your prescriptions
Proof of enrollment in Medicaid, including a copy of the annual award letter (if possible)
HS diploma (when available) and any transcripts (if available)
Passport or any immigration documents (if available)
Any records of bank accounts (if applicable)
List of trusted contacts (friends, family members) and how to get in touch with them (important in case you lose use of your phone)
Voter Registration Card (if applicable - library staff can help you register to vote up to 2 months before your 18th birthday)
Contact Integral Care. Start this ASAP because it can take a long time. Their transition age program supports youth ages 16-25, and can help with counseling, mental health and job support, case management and medicine. 512-472-HELP (4357), Monday through Friday, from 8am to 5pm.
Prenatal and Parenting Support Program from People's Community Clinic
Lists of local resources for teen parents from Jane's Due Process
SAFE provides support for teen parents in the foster care system or aging out of it
The Library has staff who can help unhoused teens or housing unstable teens navigate resources and options for a variety of situations from housing support, health/medical resources, basic needs, to legal assistance.
You can text them at 512-820-1648 or 737-247-9647 or Email the APL Community Navigation Team at APL.CommunityNav@austintexas.gov.
In-person assistance is available at the Central Library with drop-in hours from 10 AM - 4 PM on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The office is located in Room 511 on the 5th floor.
Student Support Team and Coordinator can help with multiple concerns and support needs.
They work with dual credit students and may be able to provide you with support
Provides services to students who are housing insecure (including sleeping on friend's couches or staying in a motel or shelter)
The site looks dated but the information and resources are current and plentiful
(Dept. of Family and Protective Services) - program to support youth transitioning out of foster care
Central Texas Youth Services - Operates the Option House which is a 15-bed emergency shelter for children and youth ages 3-17. Crisis line: 800-421-8336 | Information line: 254-634-2085
LifeWorks is a local group that works with youth ages 18-25. Call them for an appointment at 512.735.2100 to learn about their housing, education and counseling programs
A Texas resident can pursue emancipation if they are:
Self-supporting and managing their own financial affairs; and
Seventeen years old
or at least 16 years old, and living separate and apart from the minor’s parents, managing conservator, or guardian.
Consider contacting the Texas Youth Hotline at 800-989-6884
Options for free legal support: Legal Aid Information Guide
More information on Emancipation from the Texas Law Library