Resources for Families experiencing homelessness

Most children and youth experiencing homelessness are not visible in shelters or on the streets, but rather moving from place to place: couches, basements, motels, cars, and wherever they can find temporary refuge. In the midst of the current pandemic crisis, the role of schools and early childhood programs has never been more critical – whether remote, hybrid or in person. Schools are required to identify, enroll, and serve homeless children and youth. It is vital that families and youth who are homeless know that help is available – that they have educational rights and know how to exercise them. 

Here are some resources that can help. 

National: 

• Homelessness | HHS.gov 

• Identifying and Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness from Pre-School to Post-Secondary Ages | U.S. Department of Education 

• National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth – National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth (naehcy.org) 

• Parent_Brochure-English.pdf (sc.gov) 

• Una_Quia_Para_Padres_De_Ninos_Sin_Hogar-Spanish.pdf (sc.gov) 

• Public Service Announcements: Raising Awareness and Reaching Families and Youth Experiencing Homelessness | SchoolHouse Connection 

• SchoolHouse Connection | Overcoming Homelessness Through Education 

State and Regional: 

• ESSA Title IX, Part A McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act - South Carolina Department of Education (sc.gov) 

• Family Promise of the Midlands 

• Homeless No More 

• Homeless Students | South Carolina Bar (scbar.org) 

• McKinney-Vento District Liaison Contact Information 2020-21 (sc.gov) 

• United Way 2-1-1 - Home (sc211.org)