About

The Keys to Independence program at Embrace Families removes barriers to getting a driver’s license for those served by the foster care system. This can include those placed in foster homes, group homes, relative and non-relative placements, extended foster care and post-secondary education support services.

When enrolled, the program helps young people navigate the process beginning with the 4-hour drug and alcohol course, learner’s permit, driving lessons and education, obtaining a driver’s license, and purchasing insurance.

In 2022, Keys to Independence expanded its program to include unaccompanied homeless young people in Florida. These young people are at least 16 year of age and found by their school district’s liaison for homeless children and youth to be an unaccompanied homeless youth eligible for services pursuant to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Act.

Why is Keys to Independence Important?

We know:

• That there are many barriers for youth in foster care to learn to drive safely and to obtain a driver’s license.
• That a young adult cannot be fully independent without a driver’s license.
• That a driver’s license helps a youth to have a job, go to school participate in social activities.
• That taking driver’s education and getting a driver’s license is part of a normal teen’s life.