# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Although our name is Bay Area Women Against Rape, we serve anyone affected by sexual violence. BAWAR defines sexual violence by the narratives of the survivors who experienced the violence. We are here to believe and validate the community we serve in a trauma-informed, culturally appropriate and accessible way.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sexual Assault Survivor Resources - City of Berkeley, CA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
San Francisco Women Against Rape | Resources & Links

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Rape Crisis Center is the sexual assault service provider for Dane County, but there are several local, state, and federal organizations offering support services for assault survivors. Find comprehensive lists of medical, legal, women's organizations, family organizations and teen organizations for additional support.

After a Sexual Assault-A Handbook
This booklet was written to provide information about the process of reporting and prosecuting a sexual assault as it concerns the victim. Understanding how the system works and what options are available may help to make the decision easier.

Local

State

National/Federal

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Rape Crisis Center is the sexual assault service provider for Dane County, but there are several local, state, and federal organizations offering support services for assault survivors. Find comprehensive lists of medical, legal, women's organizations, family organizations and teen organizations for additional support. After a Sexual Assault-A Handbook This booklet was written to provide ...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sexual Assault Resources | WOAR - Women Organized Against Rape

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sexual assault resources. Refer to these other organizations for additional information and support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sexual Abuse Resources - PublicHealth.org

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Curated List of Public Health Sexual Abuse Resources. Find Journals, Open Courseware, Research and Professional Organizations, and More.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
General Information:

National Sexual Assault Hotline: National hotline, operated by RAINN, that serves people affected by sexual violence. It automatically routes the caller to their nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search your local center here. Hotline: 800.656.HOPE

National Sexual Violence Resource Center: This site offers a wide variety of information relating to sexual violence including a large legal resource library.

National Organization for Victim Assistance: Founded in 1975, NOVA is the oldest national victim assistance organization of its type in the United States as the recognized leader in this noble cause.

National Online Resource Center on Violence Against Women: VAWnet, a project of the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence hosts a resource library home of thousands of materials on violence against women and related issues, with particular attention to its intersections with various forms of oppression.

U.S. Department of Justice: National Sex Offender Public Website: NSOPW is the only U.S. government Website that links public state, territorial, and tribal sex offender registries from one national search site.

The National Center for Victims of Crime: The mission of the National Center for Victims of Crime is to forge a national commitment to help victims of crime rebuild their lives. They are dedicated to serving individuals, families, and communities harmed by crime.

National Street Harassment Hotline: Created by Stop Street Harassment, Defend Yourself, and operated by RAINN, the National Street Harassment Hotline is a resource for those affected by gender-based street harassment. Support is available in English and Spanish: call 855.897.5910 or chat online.

Child Abuse/Sexual Abuse:

National Child Abuse Hotline: They can provide local referrals for services. A centralized call center provides the caller with the option of talking to a counselor. They are also connected to a language line that can provide service in over 140 languages. Hotline: 800.4.A.CHILD (422.2253)

Darkness to Light: They provide crisis intervention and referral services to children or people affected by sexual abuse of children. Hotline calls are automatically routed to a local center. Helpline: 866.FOR.LIGHT (367.5444)

Cyber Tipline: This Tipline is operated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Can be used to communicate information to the authorities about child pornography or child sex trafficking. Hotline: 800.THE.LOST (843.5678)

National Children's Alliance: This organization represents the national network of Child Advocacy Centers (CAC). CACs are a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement, mental and physical health practitioners who investigate instances of child physical and sexual abuse. Their website explains the process and has a directory according to geographic location.

Stop It Now: Provides information to victims and parents/relatives/friends of child sexual abuse. The site also has resources for offender treatment as well as information on recognizing the signs of child sexual abuse. Hotline: 888-PREVENT (773.8368)

Justice for Children: Provides a full range of advocacy services for abused and neglected children.

Domestic, Dating and Intimate Partner Violence:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: Through this hotline an advocate can provide local direct service resources (safehouse shelters, transportation, casework assistance) and crisis intervention. Interpreter services available in 170 languages. They also partner with the Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Center to provide a videophone option. Hotline: 800.799.SAFE

National Teen Dating Abuse Online Helpline: This online helpline assists teens who are, or may be, in abusive relationships.

Pathways to Safety International: The center serves abused Americans, mostly women and children, in both civilian and military populations overseas. In addition to providing domestic violence advocacy, safety planning and case management, the center assists victims with relocation, emergency funds for housing and childcare, and funds for payment of legal fees.

National Coalition against Domestic Violence: The national coalition of Domestic Violence organizations is dedicated to empowering victims and changing society to a zero tolerance policy.

Incest:
(See also resources on Child Abuse/ Sexual Abuse above)

Survivors of Incest Anonymous: They provide information on how to find incest survivor support groups in your area and empowers individuals to become survivors and thrivers.

GirlThrive: Girlthrive Inc. honors teen girls and young women who have survived incest and all sex abuse through thriverships, opportunity and education.

Stalking

Stalking Resource Center: The Stalking Resource Center is a program of the National Center for Victims of Crime. Their website provides statistics on stalking, information on safety planning and other resources.

Survivors with Disabilities:

Deaf Abused Women's Network (DAWN): Legal, medical, system advocacy and survivor support services. Video Phone: 202.559.5366

CAVANET: This organization addresses violence against women, human rights, genocide, and crime victims with disabilities.

National Disability Rights Network: NDRN members investigate reports of abuse and neglect, and seek systemic change to prevent further incidents; advocate for basic rights; and ensure accountability in health care, education, employment, housing, transportation, and within the juvenile and criminal justice systems for individuals with disabilities.

College Students:

NotAlone.gov: A government website dedicated to educating students and schools about Title IX and sexual assault.

Know Your IX: Provides information for students about their Title IX rights in regards to ending sexual violence on campus.

End Rape on Campus: An advocacy organization dedicated to assisting students file Title IX complaints.

Resources for Male Survivors of Sexual Assault:

1in6: Provides educational information and resources for men who've been sexually abused or assaulted. Chat with a trained advocate through the national helpline for men, available 24/7. Join a weekly chat-based online support group, facilitated by a counselor. 1in6 also serves loved ones and service providers.

Jimhopper.com: This site has articles that discuss the effects of child sexual abuse on adult men and their loved ones.

Malesurvivor.org: This site has information and a therapist search for male survivors of sexual violence.

LGBTQ Survivors:

GLBTQ Domestic Violence Project: Website, information and hotline for GLBTQ victims of domestic violence and their families. Hotline: 800.832.1901

the Network la Red: The Network/La Red hotline provides emotional support, information, and safety planning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer and/or transgender folks, as well as folks in the BDSM or Polyamorous communities who are being abused or have been abused by a partner. Support available in English and Spanish. Hotline: 617.742.4911

National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs: A coalition of programs that document and advocate for victims of anti-LGBT and anti-HIV/AIDS violence/harassment, domestic violence, sexual assault, police misconduct and other forms of victimization. Site has a list of local anti-violence programs and publications. Hotline: 212.714.1141

The Trevor Project: Help and suicide prevention for GBLTQ youth. Hotline: 866.488.7386

GLBT National Hotline: Call center that refers to over 15,000 resources across the country that support LGBTQ individuals. Hotline: 888.THE.GLNH (843.4564)

FORGE (For Ourselves: Reworking Gender Expression): Home to the Transgender Sexual Violence Project. Provides services and publishes research for transgender persons experiencing violence and their loved ones.

Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Issues in Counseling: Directory of LGBT-friendly mental health specialists across the United States. Specialists listed are verified members of AGLBTIC, a division of the American Counseling Association.

Human Trafficking:

National Human Trafficking Resource Center: A national multilingual anti-trafficking hotline. Caller can report a tip; connect with anti-trafficking services in their area; or request training and technical assistance, general information, or specific anti-trafficking resources. Hotline: 888.373.7888

U.S. Department of Justice Trafficking in Persons and Worker Exploitation Complaint Line: Call to report suspected instances of human trafficking or worker exploitation or contact the FBI field office nearest you. Offers foreign language translation services in most languages as well as TTY. After business hours, the complaint line has a message service in English, Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin. Hotline: 888.428.7581

Military Resources:

Safe Helpline: Department of Defense (DoD) Safe Helpline is a groundbreaking crisis support service for members of the DoD community affected by sexual assault. Safe Helpline provides live, one-on-one support and information to the worldwide DoD community. The service is confidential, anonymous, secure, and available worldwide, 24/7 by click, call or text - providing victims with the help they need anytime, anywhere. Hotline: 877.995.5247

Legal Resources:

Womenslaw.org: Information about restraining orders and other legal protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

The Laws in Your State: A database of state laws including mandatory reporting, confidentiality laws, HIV/AIDS testing of sexual offenders, termination of rapists' parental rights, and statutes of limitations for each state.

Attorney Referral Line: Refers callers to attorneys in their geographic area who can represent them in their pursuit of civil claims and victim restitution. The referral line is not an anonymous service. Their website also gives information about civil lawsuits. Phone: 202.467.8716

Take Back The Night Foundation: Legal support for survivors in every state. Referrals to counseling, support, legal aid, hospitals, and nearest TBTN Event Holders. Hotline: 866.966.9013

It Happened to Alexa Foundation: The 'It Happened to Alexa Foundation' supports rape survivors through the trauma of the criminal trial, in the hopes that more survivors will go through with the prosecution in order to put these perpetrators behind bars.

U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: Call or email to report sexual harassment in housing. 844.380.6178 or fairhousing@usdoj.gov.

Medical/Physical Health:

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE): The SANE/SART program offers sensitive, caring, and supportive care following a sexual assault. Their website provides a list of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) programs in each state. These specialists are registered nurses, who have advanced education in forensic examination of sexual assault victims.

Healthcare Center Directory: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services maintains a Healthcare Center Directory. This directory lists federally funded health centers that provide a variety of services even if the recipient does not have health insurance. Users pay a co-payment based on their income. These health centers generally provide primary care services. Phone: 877.464.4772

The Center For Disease Control National Prevention Information Network (AIDS/HIV, STI Information): U.S. reference, referral, and distribution service for information on HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Hotline: 800.458.5231

International Association of Forensic Nurses: An international membership organization comprised of forensic nurses working around the world and other professionals who support and complement the work of forensic nursing.

Start Your Recovery: Substance abuse information that relates to a survivors's experience with seuxal assault.

Mental Health:

Sidran Traumatic Stress Foundation: The Sidran Institute provides information on traumatic stress (including PTSD), dissociative disorders, and co-occurring issues such as addictions, self-injury, and suicidal behaviors.

GoodTherapy.org: GoodTherapy.org is an association of mental health professionals from more than 25 countries worldwide who support efforts to reduce harm in therapy.

Psychology Today: Find detailed professional listings for treatment centers in the United States and Canada.

National Eating Disorder Helpline: Information, crisis and referral hotline for people dealing with eating disorders. Helpline: 800.931.2237

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides information and referral services, not counseling. Helpline: 888.950.NAMI (6264)

Hope Exists After Rape Trauma: The mission of Hope Exists After Rape Trauma (H-E-A-R-T) is to provide HOPE for victims of sexual assault through the provision of essential and therapeutic support, by affecting positive change in laws influencing their lives, and by educating both the public and professionals commissioned to serve victims.

Suicide and Self-Harm:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Provides crisis suicide intervention, self-harm counseling and assistance, and local mental health referrals. Calls are routed to local centers. Hotline: 800.273.TALK (8255) and for the Spanish line call 888.628.9454 or TTY: 800.799.4TTY (4889)

Sexual Assault Prevention:

National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center: Sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this website to be useful to scientists, practitioners, advocates, grassroots organizations, and any other professional or layperson interested in current topics related to violence against women and its prevention.

Project Respect: Project Respect aims to create discussions and share a positive alternative model of relationships for youth.

PreventConnect: The goal of PreventConnect is to advance the primary prevention of sexual assault and relationship violence by building a community of practice among people who are engaged in such efforts.

Campus Outreach Services: Offer information and expertise to schools on sexual violence, diversity, sexual harassment, bullying, hate crimes, healthy relationships, assertiveness, eating disorders, suicide, and related risk issues.

The Date Safe Project: The DATE SAFE Project, Inc. provides positive how-to skills and helpful insights for addressing verbal consent (asking first), respecting of boundaries, sexual decision-making, bystander intervention, and supporting survivors (opening the door for family and friends).

Child Help: Speak Up Be Safe: Childhelp Speak Up Be Safe is a newly developed, school-based, child abuse prevention education program that focuses on child safety. It is an evolution of Good Touch Bad Touch.

Men Can Stop Rape: Men Can Stop Rape seeks to mobilize men to use their strength for creating cultures free from violence, especially men's violence against women.

Cyber Bullying Research Cente r: A clearinghouse for information regarding cyberbullying.

For International Resources, please click here.
For statistics on Sexual Assault, please click here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
National Resources for Sexual Assault Survivors and their Loved Ones

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
National Sexual Assault Hotline: National hotline, operated by RAINN, that serves people affected by sexual violence. It automatically routes the caller to their nearest sexual assault service provider. You can also search your local center here. Hotline: 800.656.HOPE National Sexual Violence Resource Center: This site offers a wide variety of information relating to sexual violence including a large legal resource library.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fight Human Trafficking and Delete_Slavery in the San Francisco Bay Area

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bay Area Anti-Trafficking Coalition (BAATC) is a nonprofit that equips individuals, civic groups and organizations to fight against human trafficking the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. Together we will Delete_slavery.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
10,000 professionals have been trained by MISSSEY since 2007, ensuring that youth serving organizations, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and educators are able to identify and help CSE youth. Any organization (government, non-government, community-based, educational, etc.) can request a training from MISSSEY.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
10,000 professionals have been trained by MISSSEY since 2007, ensuring that youth serving organizations, law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, and educators are able to identify and help CSE youth. Any organization (government, non-government, community-based, educational, etc.) can request a training from MISSSEY.

# data[].attributes.headline
Attorney General Resources Sex Trafficking

# data[].attributes.subject
Attorney General Resources Sex Trafficking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Non-Governmental Organizations Funded by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services 1736 Family Crisis Center 1736 Family Crisis Center is a Los Angeles nonprofit shelter and outpatient services for domestic violence survivors, runaway and homeless youth, low-income people, persons in crisis.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The police sex scandal is a big setback to the many advocacy groups working in Oakland to help victims of sex trafficking.

As many can imaging it's really difficult for those who work with exploited sex trafficking victims out in the streets in Oakland.

So, who do you tell them to trust, if they don't trust the police? "It really does rock the trust and confidence a victim would have in the system and we are working very hard to make sure that we isolate those that have engaged in bad behavior and keep kids and other people safe," Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley said.

O'Malley spoke out for the first time since last week when the sex scandal at Oakland Police Department blew up over damning allegations of contact with an underage prostitute. The officers may face charges. "Statutory rape from when she was a minor, one of them is engaging in commercial sex and paying for it, one of them is color of authority," she said.

The ongoing investigation is negatively affecting outreach to sex trafficking victims in Oakland and beyond.

When asked can victims on the street trust the police following the scandal, sex trafficking survivor Venus Morris said, "No, there's no way we can trust the police because that means I can't come to you in confidence and know that I'm safe."

"We know we can't go to law enforcement because they're also going to exploit us and be inappropriate with us and it's almost like sitting in that danger that we're already in is the safest place to be," Shade Project spokesperson Sarai Smith said.

When asked has the Oakland Police Department scandal undermine efforts to help sex trafficking victims, Smith said: "Definitely. We have to be really careful when we sit there and say if you need help law enforcement will help you."

Now, advocacy groups are re-doubling their efforts to reach out to teens trapped in prostitution in Oakland and around the Bay Area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
advocacy groups work to help teens trapped in bay area prostitution

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Local groups working to help teens trapped in prostitution

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The police sex scandal is a big setback to the many advocacy groups working in Oakland to help victims of sex trafficking. As many can imaging it's really difficult for those who work with exploited sex trafficking victims out in the streets in Oakland.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Alameda County District Attorney's Office is a leader in the state and the nation in the fight against human trafficking and sexual exploitation of children. In partnership with Clear Channel Outdoor and local community based organizations, the District Attorney's Office is honored to unveil its newest public awareness campaign consisting of billboards and bus shelter posters visible throughout the county of Alameda, CA.

# data[].attributes.headline
San Francisco Collaborative Against Sex Trafficking

# data[].attributes.subject
San Francisco Collaborative Against Sex Trafficking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
San Francisco Collaborative Against Human Trafficking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
San Francisco Collaborative Against Human Trafficking

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When people hear the words "domestic violence," they often assume it means hitting, kicking, or choking.

"Domestic violence includes these behaviors and many others," says Carol Azar, Health Education manager at our Oakland Medical Center. "Feeling controlled, threatened, blamed, intimidated, criticized, or put down by someone you love are all aspects of domestic violence."

If you recognize any of these warning signs in your relationship, Kaiser Permanente is a safe place to discuss it. Our physicians, nurses, social workers, and other staff members are prepared to talk with you, help you, and connect you to community resources.
Learn more about Kaiser Permanente's Family Violence Prevention program. Other resources for help with domestic violence include the following:
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
Kaiser Permanente is not responsible for the content or policies of external Internet sites.
1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) (toll free)
1-800-787-3224 (TTY for the deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired) (toll free)

Safe Alternatives to Violent Environments (S.A.V.E.)
Kaiser Permanente is not responsible for the content or policies of external Internet sites.
510-794-6055

The Alameda County Family Justice Center for Oakland
Kaiser Permanente is not responsible for the content or policies of external Internet sites.
510-267-8800

The Family Violence Law Center's Mobile Response Team
Kaiser Permanente is not responsible for the content or policies of external Internet sites.
24-hour Crisis Line for Alameda County:
510-757-5123

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
East Bay There's help for domestic violence - Kaiser Permanente

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
When people hear the words "domestic violence," they often assume it means hitting, kicking, or choking. "Domestic violence includes these behaviors and many others," says Carol Azar, Health Education manager at our Oakland Medical Center. "Feeling controlled, threatened, blamed, intimidated, criticized, or put down by someone you love are all aspects of domestic violence."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, the National Domestic Violence Hotline provides essential tools and support to help survivors of domestic violence so they can live their lives free of abuse.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Q: When assisting homeless individuals who aspire to take college-level classes or attain a degree, what are some of the most common barriers encountered?

A: For my clients, the biggest barriers seem to be lack of childcare, coordination of class and work schedules, and access to the technology needed to complete class work. Most students or prospective students experiencing homelessness can't afford to attend school full-time without having a job of some sort to pay the bills. In many workplaces, coordinating work schedules around a student's class schedule just isn't an option (particularly in the types of jobs most homeless individuals without a college degree have - shift work with rotating schedules, temporary jobs, etc.).

Childcare also presents a huge barrier for parents who are enrolled in college courses, as most classrooms don't approve of bringing children to class, and childcare costs are often unaffordable to those with limited income.

Access to technology is a barrier my clients seem to be encountering more and more as learning environments become more heavily reliant on online platforms, or require students to do work requiring internet access outside of class time. Typically, emergency shelters don't have Wi-Fi, and only some have computers for residents to access, which makes completing work at night difficult for those students who may be residing in shelters. One of my clients often ends up in her car at the McDonald's parking lot late at night, sending in last minute online contributions to her group projects using their free Wi-Fi.

Q: What are some of the best resources available to homeless students who wish to undertake postsecondary learning?

A: Obviously financial aid is the most heavily utilized resource for students experiencing homelessness, as they typically qualify for Pell grants, Hope scholarships, and other federal and state financial aid funds.

The Department of Human Services provides limited childcare subsidies for individuals who are in need, a program many of my clients utilize to help pay for childcare while in school, as well as utilizing their other services, like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Families First, and food stamps.

Clearly, when discussing homelessness, housing is generally the biggest concern, so that's the area in which most folks need referrals. Often there are many local programs geared toward providing housing and supportive services. Other types of organizations prospective homeless students may find in their area include those which help students facing financial obstacles by providing resources to assist with debt reduction, building credit, and much more: all crucial for students who are trying to make things work on very little income. Local churches also sometimes provide resources for individuals experiencing homelessness, including sack lunches, bus passes and gift cards for groceries and gas.

Q: Many homeless students feel overwhelmed when trying to balance their educations with other responsibilities in their lives, such as children, work, or supporting family members. What advice do you have for students who feel they have too much going on to pursue education?

A: Working with clients who are pursuing education while experiencing homelessness, I'm continually impressed at how much they have to juggle. I think of times I complained about the stress of finals during college, and I had a stable place to live, no children and a lot of support from my family, so I can't imagine the stress students who are homeless must feel. However, I've seen that for these students, the payoff of pursuing an education can be huge. A former client went from working a part-time minimum wage job at Pizza Hut during school to make ends meet to completing a fairly brief IT training program and getting an incredible entry-level job in the field making $45,000 a year. The incredible amount of effort she put in for that year changed the course of her life and career. Additionally, I'd advise students to reach out to organizations or federal programs that can help them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Help for Homeless College Students: Resources & Programs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A: For my clients, the biggest barriers seem to be lack of childcare, coordination of class and work schedules, and access to the technology needed to complete class work. Most students or prospective students experiencing homelessness can't afford to attend school full-time without having a job of some sort to pay the bills.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Resources

Resources Listserv
Join the Homeless Children and Youth Resources listserv to receive information and updates relating to the education of homeless children and youth.

Strategies
Suggested program strategies to assist with the implementation of homeless education provisions in the areas of transportation, identification, Title I, enrollment, preschool, and special education.

New Identification Strategies and Resources in Response to Coronavirus (DOCX)
Identification strategies and resources for LEAs in response to Coronavirus for students experiencing homelessness in one easy to access page.

California Department of Social Services' Housing and Homelessness Programs
Governor Newsom announces Project Roomkey designated to target hotels in counties with significant homeless populations that are also experiencing high concentrations of Coronavirus transmission.

Letters

Reopening School for Students in Foster Care and Students Experiencing Homelessness
This letter reminds local educational agencies that when reopening schools, special populations such as students in foster care and children and youth experiencing homelessness must be considered.

Educating Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness Letter
The California Department of Education (CDE) reminds local educational agencies of the provisions of the McKinney-Vento Act's Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) Program.

Dispute Resolution Letter (DOCX; Updated Mar-2020)
This letter outlines the law and steps to ensure that disputes are resolved promptly while safeguarding the rights of all parties.

Training Modules

Transportation Agreement (PDF)
This is a sample transportation agreement between two local educational agencies who are responsible for providing and/or arranging transportation of a child or youth experiencing homelessness.

Overview of Homeless Education (PPTX; Updated 21-Sep-2022)
This PowerPoint presentation has been updated and provides a high-level overview of the educational rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness under Subtitle VII-B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, as well as an addresses statute.

Additional translations of the Housing Questionnaire and Instructions/Template are available via email in the following languages:

Arabic, Armenian, Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional), Hindi, Hmong, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Lao, Punjabi, Russian, Samoan, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese.

Please send an email with your request of the DOCX or PDF version of the template to HomelessEd@cde.ca.gov.

Housing Questionnaire Frequently Asked Questions (DOCX)
This resource addresses frequently asked questions about the housing questionnaire and its implementation. For additional resources and support please contact the CDE 's Homeless Education program at HomelessEd@cde.ca.gov.

Enrolling Homeless Children and Youth (PPTX; Updated 21-Sep-2022)
This PowerPoint presentation has been updated and provides enrollment personnel an understanding of the legal guidelines for the immediate school enrollment of children and youth experiencing homelessness.

Identification Strategies for Homeless Children and Youth Video
Video recording of the Identification Strategies for Homeless Children and Youth PowerPoint.
Identification Strategies for Homeless Children and Youth Transcription
List of Head Start Agencies and COE's Homeless Liaisons (PDF)
This resource is designed to allow Head Start staff and county office of education homeless liaisons to easily access each other to refer families for complimentary services. Some Head Start programs serve multiple counties and may be listed more than once.

Collaboration with Community Partnerships and Service Providers to Support Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (PDF)
The benefits of collaboration for both LEAs and students experiencing homelessness are far reaching. This PowerPoint presentation will support the LEA with a step-by-step process to build relationships with local community agencies, organizations, and non-profits.

Someone to Turn To Video
Video recording of the Someone To Turn To: School Site Liaisons for Students Experiencing Homelessness PowerPoint.
Someone to Turn To: School Site Liaisons for Students Experiencing Homelessness Transcript
Training Module Certificate

Sample Documents

Poster

The "You Can Enroll in School" poster provides public notice of the educational rights and protections of children and youth experiencing homelessness, including school enrollment which is guaranteed by federal and state law regardless of housing.

Resources

Homeless Education - CalEdFacts
California Department of Education's information and media guide about education in the State of California. For information on other topics, visit the fullCalEdFacts.

National Homelessness Law Center
A legal resource center that provides legal assistance.

Last Reviewed: Wednesday, September 20, 2023

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources for Homeless Children and Youth

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Resources related to homeless students' rights to enroll and participate fully in school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Resources and Advocacy for K-12 and College Students Experiencing Homelessness

According to data released by the Department of Justice, more than 1.7 million teenagers experience homelessness within the United States each year - a number that is considered low given students' reticence to share details of their living situations. Education should be a basic right of every citizen, yet far too many students who find themselves without permanent housing aren't aware of the wealth of resources available to them - both on campus and in their local communities. The following guide addresses this as well as other common barriers to academic success, current legislation, and meaningful ways that educators and administrators can make a difference for both K-12 and college students experiencing homelessness.

Fast Facts on Student Homelessness

For too long and for too many students, the issue of homelessness has not received the attention it deserves. This is especially true when considering the dramatic rise of homelessness within K-12 students over the previous decade. The statistics below show just how pervasive this issue is:

Between 2008 and 2014, homelessness in public school increased by 90 percent, jumping from 680,000 to more than 1.3 million students.

Approximately 35 percent of America's homeless population is under the age of 24.

As of 2017, approximately 14 percent of community college students were homeless, and up to two-thirds don't have enough food.

Sources: The Atlantic, U.S. Department of Education, Department of Housing and Urban Development

Reality for Homeless Students: Barriers to Academic Success

When basic needs such as running water, food, and a bed cannot be met, it stands to reason that academic success suffers. By gaining a better understanding of all the obstacles homeless students face, administrators and educators are better equipped to be an empathetic voice that advocates for them in the classroom and beyond.

Attendance Problems
Because homeless students are transient, many face barriers when it comes to finding reliable transportation, completing homework assignments, and finishing a full grade at one school. The National Network 4 Youth found that 20 percent of homeless students repeat at least one grade while in school.

Sleep Deprivation
Without access to a permanent bed of their own, many homeless students sleep wherever they can find shelter - including storage units, vehicles, shared motel rooms with other people, or even on the street. Because they seldom get a restful night's sleep, many of these students struggle to stay focused while at school.

High Stress
Aside from the normal stressors related to growing up, homeless K-12 students also must face much larger questions: When will I get my next meal? Will I be taken away from my parents? At the postsecondary level, homeless college students are often struggling to balance a full-time job while in school and are constantly concerned about being able to pay for housing, utilities, and possibly even costs related to supporting other family members.

Behavioral Issues
It's no surprise that most homeless students come from unstable families. While the lack of support from parents or siblings is stressful enough, many of these learners are also at a high risk of being exposed to traumatic events, such as domestic abuse, alcoholism, drug use, or protecting one parent from another. Data from the Institute for Children and Poverty found up to 12 percent of homeless students miss 30 days of classes due to issues at home.

Substance Abuse
Approximately 80 percent of homeless youth either actively or in the past have abused substances as a way to deal with all the trauma of their upbringing.

Shame
Regardless of their current situation, many homeless youths feel intense shame and responsibly for being homeless. In the midst of trying to balance a rigorous academic schedule, these students often feel ashamed to let friends or teachers know about their past or current homeless status.

Poor Health
Homeless students and their families rarely have quality access to healthcare, and therefore have likely neglected many preventative measures to better their health. Many of these students have never visited a pediatrician or dentist, and are too afraid to tell a physician about their living situation.

Poor Diet
It's important for children and youth to eat healthy, balanced diets that create healthy immune systems, yet for many homeless students, that scenario is not a possibility. Many of these students have grown up under-nourished, due both to lack of access to food generally and lack of access to healthy food specifically.

Poor Hygiene
When students are living out of cars or storage units, their access to running water is severely limited. This lack of access to facilities that allow them to maintain hygienic practices only adds to the sense of shame and embarrassment that uproots their emotional health.

Understanding Homelessness and Legislation for Students

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act was passed into federal law during Ronald Reagan's presidency, with 2017 marking the 20th anniversary of this important legislation existing. As the most significant piece of federal law focused on homelessness within the United States, McKinney-Vento works to ensure that academic barriers to success are resolved as efficiently and effectively as possible. It also works to provide support mechanisms to ensure that, at least while at school, students have access to basic care such as education, food, and shelter.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act defines homeless children and youth as any individual who does not have access to a permanent and satisfactory dwelling to return home to at night. Student populations included in this definition are those who are sharing transitory housing (e.g. motel, motor home, trailer) with other people who are also experiencing loss of housing; those whose primary dwelling was not created for residence and functions in a different capacity during daytime hours; those who are living in any type of vehicle, public structure, or abandoned space; and those who are considered migrants.

The McKinney-Vento Act covers homeless children and youth who are aged 21 or younger.

Under this law, homeless students have numerous rights when it comes to access to education and services, including:

The right to be immediately enrolled in school and to participate fully in any school activities for which they are eligible - even if the child can't provide records that are typically required.

The right to attend a school in their neighborhood or district where they previously had permanent housing, regardless of their current location.

The right to receive transportation to and from school.

The right to take advantage of educational programs and services, including Title I provisions, free meals, ESL programs, special education, gifted and talented, pre-school, vocational training, and pre-/post-school childcare.

The right to receive specialized protections for homeless youth, including the ability to enroll in a school without documentation of guardianship.

The right to debate a decision about enrollment if they feel it is unfair or disadvantageous.

The right to request that a homeless educational liaison be appointed to ensure they have proper access and representation.

The rules below apply specifically to public schools, and private schools are not covered under the McKinney-Vento Act. Things that schools are required to do include:

Not discriminate against any student, regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, or disability.

Eliminate any identified barriers that prevent students from fully participating in school, including any "outstanding fees or fines"- particularly those associated with extracurricular activities.

Enroll students at any time they come to the school, including mid-semester.

Not discipline or expel a student for issue related to their homelessness (e.g. missing class).

Provide free school meals, regardless of whether they provide income documentation.

Provide any medical or dental services that can be accessed at the school.

Ensure all students have access to safe and confidential services - especially when domestic abuse is a concern in their home.

Although the McKinney-Vento Act covers homeless students aged 21 and younger, the rules in place are typically focused on ensuring unaccompanied homeless youth are supported while trying to graduate from high school. That being said, the law does require schools and colleges to provide a range of services meant to help students who aspire to postsecondary education fulfill those goals. Some of these include:

Providing homeless students with access to counselors who can offer advice, counseling, and mentorship while also ensuring learners are better prepared for college.

Receiving fee waivers for college standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT.

Writing letters to prospective colleges explaining the student's situation and validating any student who marks themselves as homeless.

Students are able to request fee waivers from colleges, even if they don't have proper documentation.

The process for becoming eligible for services provided under the McKinney-Vento Act is typically straight-forward and hinges on proving the student fits within the definition of "homeless" as outlined by the law. Given that homeless student's lives are rarely straight-forward, however, this process requires a knowledgeable and patient local homeless education liaison who is able to read the definition carefully and make case-by-case decisions about each child.

Additional Laws for Homeless Students

Aside from McKinney-Vento, numerous other laws are on the books to help benefit homeless students trying to complete K-12 and college educations.

Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

Commonly known as the No Child Left Behind program, Title I funding exists to ensure low-income students can access programs and support systems designed to enhance their academic achievements. Even if a school attended by a homeless student doesn't typically receive Title I funding, provisions are in place to providing funding to offer services to that student. Examples of support mechanisms include tutoring programs, after-school programs, and individualized support.

Head Start Act

Since 2007, Head Start has worked to prepare students in low-income areas for grade school by providing pre-school programs. While not specifically aimed at homeless learners, they typically meet all the requirements for receiving the service. At present day, however, the issue is that demand far outweighs supply. Many students are placed on waiting lists at their neighborhood school, but homeless learners who are constantly moving may struggle to take up their spot when the time comes.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

IDEA was enacted to ensure learners with disabilities - including those who are homeless - are able to receive specialized educational services that address individual learning disabilities. Because homeless students have a higher risk of exhibiting learning or developmental delays, laws like IDEA ensure they have access to all the same services, regardless of their home situation.

Child Nutrition Act

CNA exists to ensure students from low-income families have access to free and/or reduced meals at school that are healthy and filling. While most parents must complete an application and show proof of income to qualify, parents of homeless students are permitted to bypass this step so their children are immediately eligible.

Identifying and Helping Homeless Students in the Classroom

Because homeless students often are embarrassed about their situations, it may not be immediately clear whether they lack permanent housing. Teachers who understand the warning signs are equipped to look for the signs, while those who understand the services better are far more prepared to ensure every student - regardless of their situation - has access to tailored services and programs to help them thrive. It's also important to remember that the warning signs listed below are often hallmarks of homelessness, yet every student is different and may exhibit different warning signs.

Warning Signs

Academic difficulties Students often come to school unprepared (e.g. no homework to turn in), and/or they struggle to focus while in class. This may include acting out in front of other students, difficulty staying awake through lessons, inability to properly absorb lessons, or being otherwise scattered and disconnected from learning.

Documentation challenges Documents typically required to enroll a child in school include proof of guardianship, proof of residency, immunization records, records from previous schools, and teacher recommendations. For many homeless students, however, lots of these documents are either hard to come by or simply don't exist.

Social and behavioral issues For many homeless students, their lives at home are unstable at best, while others have traumatic or anxiety-inducing experiences on a daily basis. Some of the ways these incidents manifest themselves behaviorally include difficulty trusting people, shyness, low self-esteem, fears about abandonment, dependency, and a fear of leaving school at the end of the day.

Poor health and nutrition Because homeless students often lack access to consistent, healthy meals, they may arrive at school having not eaten since receiving a meal at school the previous day. This can lead to students being disconnected in classroom settings, but also problems such as being frequently sick or malnourished.

Poor hygiene and wardrobe issues Students who lack access to running water or washing machines may show signs of homelessness by wearing the same clothes continually without them being cleaned. They may also exhibit oily skin or hair, or strong body odors, since they aren't able to bathe regularly.

Lack of continuity in school Homeless students tend to move around a lot because they have no fixed and permanent home. Students from this population are far more likely to miss large amounts of school days and repeat grades because they simply don't have the stability in place to be in attendance daily. It can also be difficult to ascertain their prior learning if records from previous schools attended aren't available.

Lack of support Unlike other students whose parents pack their lunches, bring them to school, and help with homework, homeless students often must motivate themselves to complete assignments, wake up on time for school, find food (if available), and figure out how to get to school each day. Teachers may never meet the parents of these students, as they don't have independent transportation to drop-off and pick-up their children or to attend parent-teacher conferences.

Unexplained absences Students who frequently discuss visiting relatives or going out of town for other inexplicable reasons, yet lack access to transportation, are often staying in short-term housing (or actively looking for shelter), making it difficult for them to come to school each day.

Avoidance of personal details Students typically aren't shy when it comes to talking about their parents or siblings, but homeless students often feel shame about their circumstances and may be reticent to share little or any details about their home life. This can also manifest in them being aloof around other students or not having many friends at school.

Inability to complete projects While most homework assignments are typically done on worksheets or notebook paper, special projects requiring students to have specific supplies (such as construction paper, glue, etc.) may present problems as students have no access to these materials and no money to purchase them. Students who regularly fail to turn in these types of assignments may have no way to get ahold of even basic school supplies.

What to Do Once Homeless Status is Confirmed

Once an educator confirms that a student is homeless, there are steps they should follow to ensure the student is getting support. Because of laws like McKinney-Vento, public schools are required to provide a range of supports, but often students need the help of teachers and guidance counselors to properly access these services. Some of the steps teachers can take to best care for their students include:

Ensure basic needs are met
Before addressing academic concerns, teachers should ensure that any homeless student has stable access to things like food, clothes, hygiene products, transportation, shelter, and medical care. They should also work with school administrators to ensure that, if a student moves or their circumstances change, updated services are provided.

Complete an educational assessment
Even if a student is meant to be starting fourth grade, they may not be academically prepared. At the start of the school year, teachers should assess the child's skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic to ascertain their ability - especially if previous school records are unavailable.

Create a check-in for new students
Whether that means eating lunch in the homeroom or taking a few moments at the end of the day, teachers should try to chat with new students for a few moments to find out how they are settling in and if they feel comfortable. For shy students, it may be helpful to assign them a task or encourage them to take part in a student activity.

Create a buddy system
Especially during the first few weeks of attending a new school, having a buddy with whom to eat lunch, walk to class, or get to know the premises can help students settle in and feel more comfortable in their new environment.

Maintain structure
Homeless students often have little to no structure in their lives outside school, so creating a routine with clear rules can help them adjust to their surroundings and calm some of their fears.

Make time for assignments at school
If students are struggling to complete homework, consider building time into daily lesson plans where assignments can be done at school (using on-site school supplies).

Monitor grades
If a teacher suspects that tutoring would help a homeless student better engage with coursework, they should proactively work to ensure that the learner has access to these services - either at the school or a community center nearby. This is also true of counseling services.

What K-12 Schools are Doing to Help

When it comes to helping homeless students and their families, even the most basic support services can have tremendously positive effects on both their academic performance and their future. There are many programs popping up in schools and local communities to help this population find access to support systems and services that help them regain their dignity and achieve their academic goals.

When students don't have access to proper nutrition, their ability to learn suffers. Science has shown that nutrition not only increases brain function, it also can help produce better behavior and support mental concentration, perception, and reasoning skills. The National School Lunch Program has been around since 1946 and provides free or heavily subsidizes lunches and snacks for children who would benefit from a federally-assisted meal program - including homeless students.

Higher Education for Homeless Students

Attending college may feel completely out of reach to students who are struggling to complete high school without a permanent roof over their heads, but many aren't aware of the resources and support programs available to help them get into college, find housing, have access to food, and secure transportation.

Programs for College-Bound Homeless Students

Programs are available to help high school students prepare for postsecondary educations and get ahead once they reach college. While some programs are organized via the federal government, others are managed by individual states or nonprofits.
Middle College High Schools
Since their creation in the 1970's, middle colleges have worked to provide an expedited path to high school diplomas for students who would benefit from a less stringent learning environment. By combining a core set of high school classes alongside several community college courses, students are able to meet the requirements of a diploma while also building credit toward a future degree. Learners must be at least 16-years-old to participate. Examples include Gary Middle College in Indiana and the Metro Nashville Early College High School.
Running Start
This program, which is currently only available in Washington and Hawaii, operates in a similar fashion as other dual enrollment programs throughout the country. By providing up to two years of free tuition at any of the state's community colleges - and select four-year institutions - degree seekers enrolled in Running Start are able to work towards a degree without having the financial stress associated with paying for credits. Students must be in 11th or 12th grade to enroll, and they're responsible for additional costs such as books, fees, and transportation.
Upward Bound
Operating as a federally funded program, Upward Bound works to ensure that students who are typically at a disadvantage for going to college have the training and access needed to succeed. The program mainly works with students who are classified as low-income, the first in their family to attend college, or living in rural areas. By enrolling in intensive programs during the summer months, high schoolers can take advantage of college prep classes in areas of math, sciences, composition, foreign languages, and literature. A special emphasis is placed on ensuring students have proper support mechanisms, including tutoring, advising, access to work-study opportunities, and cultural enrichment.
GEAR UP
Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) is another federally funded program that dispenses funds to state governments for the education of low-income learners. GEAR UP is a cohort-based program whereby students, beginning with seventh grade and moving through senior year, participate in a range of programs designed to raise the number of learners who attend - and graduate from - college.
Work experience programs
In addition to all the knowledge that homeless students can pick up in high school, there are many skills that are best taught outside the classroom. Work experience programs are great for rounding out a student's knowledge base, ensuring they understand the importance of soft skills such as time management, self-discipline, and professionalism. The California Department of Education is home to Work Experience Education (WEE), while the Coalition for the Homeless maintains the First Step Job Experience program.

On- and Off-Campus Support for Homeless College Students

Having continued support while attending college can increase homeless students' chances of succeeding in school. Colleges and communities throughout the U.S. are stepping up to serve this population in meaningful ways that encourage academic, emotional and physical balance.

On-Campus Programs and Initiatives for Homeless College Students
Campus transition, engagement and academic support programs
Programs like Florida State University's Unconquered Scholars and the University of Utah's Student Homelessness Task Force exist to ensure students receive support and opportunities to participate in campus life throughout the lifespan of their college career. Aside from letting homeless students know that they are known and cared for, these programs provide a range of helpful services. Examples include one-to-one advising, skills workshops, financial aid assistance and workshops, coaching on adjusting to college life, and counseling services.
Campus food pantries
Worrying about food is the last thing a college student should be doing when trying to get good grades and balance a job/internship, but sadly it's the reality for far too many degree seekers. Many food pantries have opened on college campuses in the last few years, including those at the University of Massachusetts at Boston, The University of Arizona, and George Mason University. Some of the services provided include access to healthy and fresh foods, a range of hygienic products, weekly pick-ups, and specialized food for those with dietary restrictions.
Case management
Programs like Kennesaw State University's CARE Management and Florida Atlantic University's Case Management/Student Advocacy work to ensure students are connected with individual case managers who can direct them to services that address their specific needs. In addition to sharing resources such as food pantries, transportation services, and medical care, these programs also help to address any grading concerns or academic issues students encounter while working towards their degrees.
On-campus housing
According to data released by the U.S. Department of Education, approximately 32,000 students identified themselves as "unaccompanied homeless youth" when filling out their FAFSA forms. Unfortunately, many college students are living in cars or other impermanent structures, making it difficult for them to focus on schoolwork. A number of college programs now exist to help students who find themselves in similar situations. Kennesaw State University's CARE Center provides 365-day housing and emergency shelter alongside access to basic hygienic products, gently used clothing, and food. Another example, Sacramento State, recently launched the Student Emergency Housing Program that provides 30 days of food and shelter to students in immediate need.

Off-Campus Programs for Homeless Students
Off-campus housing for students
If colleges don't have adequate housing for homeless students, or it is too expensive for them, they still have many options to choose from. Programs like Students for Students (S4S) in Los Angeles and Y2Y Harvard in Boston offer housing for students, by students. Aside from providing a consistent roof over their heads, formerly homeless
College meal assistance
Although many colleges are now working to provide food pantries and other campus-based meal assistance, sometimes students need a bit more help to survive. Programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provide students with governmental assistance to keep food in the cupboard, but it does require them to work at least 20 hours per week. Swipe Out Hunger is an innovative program where college students donate extra meal points at the end of each semester, which are then given to homeless students to use on campus. Aside from providing food, this program makes it possible for homeless students to eat at campus-based dining halls and interact with other students.
Resource connection services
Students have enough on their minds with schoolwork to worry about finding individual services and resources. Rather than students having to search for things like housing, food, transportation, or suitable technology, organizations like Single Stop USA offer an overarching network of common services, thereby providing a one-stop-shop for basic help. The California Homeless Youth Project is another similar program, providing a comprehensive set of resources for all the most common needs of homeless college students.

In addition to all the helpful information and resources found on this page, homeless students can also learn about numerous college resources designed to support low income students as they work towards a degree. Check out the guide below to learn more.

Get Involved: How You Can Help Homeless Students

Even if you aren't on the frontlines of serving homeless K-12 or college students as an education professional, there are still many important ways to be involved in supporting these young learners. Individuals who have the means to support the fight against youth homelessness in monetary ways can find many worthy organizations accepting donations, while those who wish to donate their time can do so at one of the countless innovative organizations that actively seek volunteers.

Coalition for the Homeless Each year, Coalition for the Homeless organizes Project: Back to School, a supply drive for homeless kids who don't have the money to purchase basic school necessities such as backpacks, notebooks, binders, and pencils.

Coalition on Homelessness Individuals who want to donate funds to buy backpacks, school supplies, books, and basic health items can contribute to this Seattle-based organization.

Homeless Children's Playtime Project This D.C.-based nonprofit works to ensure that homeless students can engage in play programs at school and takes donations in the form of games and money.

Homeless Children's Education Fund Pittsburg's HCEF offers mini-grants for educational enrichment programs tailored to the needs of homeless students.

Human I-T This nonprofit works to address the lack of access to technology that can help homeless students progress in school and complete assignments when they can't get to the school library. Donations can be made in the form of used/new electronics or money.

Positive Tomorrows The innovative program at PT allows donors to pay for specific services for homeless students, including field trips, supplies, shots and health checks, and other educational fees.

Project Night Night Each year, Project Night Night provides 25,000 packages to homeless students aged 12 and under, including blankets, books, and stuffed animals.

Spring ISD Homeless Resource Center This organization launched a "Dress for Success" program that collects donations of clothing or money to help homeless high school students find suitable attire when interviewing for jobs, internships, or colleges.

YouthCare Each year, this organization supports thousands of homeless students by providing items ranging from art supplies and journals to sports equipment and shoes.

A Child's Place Individuals in Charlotte, North Carolina who are looking for actionable ways to support homeless students need look no further than A Child's Place. This nonprofit offers volunteer roles ranging from lunch buddies (volunteers visit school once per week to spend time with a child) to tutors and classroom assistants.

Homemade Hope Dallas's Homemade Hope is not only working to eradicate homelessness in the city, it's also ensuring that homeless students have access to strong, empathetic adults who support them. Volunteer roles include tutor, after-school cooking, field-trip chaperone, and many other positions.

Horizons for Homeless Children With a focus on engaging homeless children in play, volunteers are needed at this nonprofit to volunteer with children living in shelters and act as Playspace Activity Leaders (PALs).

Housing Families This short-term shelter for homeless families is always looking for volunteers who can help engage students during their time at the center. Current volunteer opportunities include providing childcare, driving the children's van, and acting as an after-school tutor.

Monarch Started in San Diego as a small education program, today Monarch operates as a comprehensive K-12 school for some of the 23,000 homeless students living in the county. Volunteers are needed to provide tutoring, mentorship, after-school care, and many other services.

New York Cares Individuals living in the Big Apple can volunteer to work with children living in homeless shelters or other unfixed housing, providing a range of educational support services based on individual needs.

Schools on Wheels This national organization offers remote tutoring services to homeless youth powered almost entirely by volunteers. Current roles include tutor, peer tutor (for 16 to 18-year-olds), tutor coordinator, group tutor, or online tutor.

Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership Based in Frederick County, Maryland, SHIP works to provide a range of services to homeless youth and is always looking for volunteers. Roles may include creating hygiene sets, coordinating a range of extracurricular activities, teaching at art camp, coaching sports, or doing a shift in the emergency shelter.

Volunteers of America This national organization works in many different parts of the country to solve youth homelessness. One of the more unique programs they have - and need volunteers for - is Brightening Birthdays. If you want to volunteer to help arrange a birthday party for a homeless child, VOA has an opportunity for you.

Youth on their Own Based in Arizona, this group works to educate homeless teens and is in constant need of volunteers who can work directly with homeless youth to affect their lives in positive ways.

Derek Vasconi: Overcoming Homelessness and Completing an Education

When he was 17-years-old, Derek Vasconi was forced to leave his mother's house and became homeless. Despite months of living in parks, he was able to complete a college degree at Penn State in human development and psychology. He is also an avid writer, having published KAI, an award-winning Japanese horror novel.

Seeking Help: Additional Resources for Homeless Students

Looking to find out about a few more resources that actively support and encourage homeless students? The websites below connect to national resources that can ensure students stay fed and sheltered.

College and University Food Bank Alliance
Homeless students looking to find out if their college (or one that is nearby) operates a food bank can use CUFBA's database to make quick work of their search.

Feeding America
Homeless students looking to find a food bank in their community can use Feeding America's national database to see what is closest to them.

Homeless Shelter Directory
This website currently maintains a database of more than 12,000 emergency food programs in America, ranging from shelters and food pantries to soup kitchens and food banks.

HUD Exchange
The Department of Housing and Urban Develop maintains a comprehensive range of resources designed specifically to serve homeless youth, including several paths to finding safe and permanent housing.

National Alliance to End Homelessness
NAEH provides an exhaustive section of its website devoted to addressing the health concerns and needs of homeless students in America, including information on how they can get help.

Sublet.com
This national website is a great resource for high school and college students who are trying to find cheap, short-term housing where they can get on their feet without breaking the bank.

National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Individuals who are experiencing homelessness while in school can use this resource to learn about their rights and find helpful resources (such as test fee waivers) to propel them forward.

National Health Care for the Homeless Council
Homeless students who need to visit a doctor or have a procedure done can contact this agency to learn about their options and receive quality care referrals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Students experiencing homelessness don't have anywhere to go. Education should be a basic right of every citizen, yet far too many students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Emergency Shelters for Adults :: Health, Housing & Homeless :: Contra Costa Health Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Contra Costa County Health, Housing & Homeless Services mission is to ensure an integrated system of care from prevention through intervention for homeless adults, youth and families within our community.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Emergency Shelters for Adults :: Health, Housing & Homeless :: Contra Costa Health Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Contra Costa County Health, Housing & Homeless Services mission is to ensure an integrated system of care from prevention through intervention for homeless adults, youth and families within our community.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Contra Costa County, CA Homeless Shelters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Contra Costa County Homeless Shelters and supportive services such as halfway houses.

# data[].attributes.body
Domestic Violence Center/ Resource

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
STAND! For Families Free of Violence is a catalyst for breaking the multi-generational cycle of violence by savings lives, rebuilding families and changing the future.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home - Bay Area Rescue Mission | Helping the Homeless in the Bay Area

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bay Area Rescue Mission has been helping the homeless since 1965 by providing food, clothing, and shelter in the Bay Area of California. Learn more today!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Not everyone in Walnut Creek has a roof over their head. View a Trinity Center video to learn how the Walnut Creek City Council has made their commitment to ending homelessness a priority.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Copyright © 2019 * Shepherd's Gate | Web Design by Oneicity Income Solutions for Nonprofits 501c3 Organization EIN: 94-2902803 Shepherd's Gate does not rent, sell or exchange any of our donors' information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Calli House :: Health, Housing & Homeless :: Contra Costa Health Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Contra Costa County Health, Housing & Homeless Services mission is to ensure an integrated system of care from prevention through intervention for homeless adults, youth and families within our community.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When others need help, they also need to be understood

Learn how to help them best.

Browse through topic-relevant articles and other helpful resources.

Browse through current job opportunities.

Learn about topics like Suicide Prevention, Grief and Loss, and 211 Resource Database.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn how to help them best. Browse through topic-relevant articles and other helpful resources. Browse through current job opportunities. Learn about topics like Suicide Prevention, Grief and Loss, and 211 Resource Database.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
First 5 Contra Costa | Making the First 5 years count

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
First 5 Contra Costa | Making the First 5 Years Count

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Love, child, children, poor, homeless, abused, women, single women, recovery, abuse, fatherless, mothers, poverty, domestic abuse, self-esteem, confidence, cottages, bay point, Pittsburg, California, Christian, Christ, willow pass road, emergency shelter, Love a child Missions, Love a child

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
SHELTER, Inc. strives to realize a vision: Re-building lives, one family at a time, by giving them a home, the skills and the resources to live the life they deserve. Each year, SHELTER, Inc. helps over 6,000 men, women and children in Contra Costa County; almost half of those helped are children.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa 835 Ferry Street, Martinez, CA 94553 Phone: (925) 293-4792 FAX: (925) 957-6155 CONTACT US

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (McKinney-Vento Act) (42 United States Code § 11431-11435) is federal legislation that ensures the educational rights and protections of children and youth experiencing homelessness. It requires all local educational agencies (LEAs) to ensure that homeless students have access to the same free, appropriate public education, including public preschools, as provided to other children and youth. The McKinney-Vento Act defines LEAs as public school districts, direct-funded and locally funded charter schools, and county offices of education. The McKinney-Vento Act also authorizes the funding for the federal Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program.

Definition of Homeless
McKinney-Vento Act definition of homeless children and youth.

Resources for Homeless Children and Youth
Resources related to homeless students' rights to enroll and participate fully in school.

Homeless Innovative Program Toolkits
The Model Innovative Practice (MIP) Toolkits were developed by 20 LEA grantees and are aligned to Local Control Funding Formula Priority Areas. These MIP Toolkits are listed below and are available for use by LEAs.

Homeless Youth in California Schools Data
Link to the Homeless Youth Data website that gives information, resources, and educational outcomes for homeless youth.

Statewide Educational Homeless Data
This presentation provides information regarding the educational outcomes for homeless children and youth during the 2019-20 school year.

Homeless Education Technical Assistance Centers (HE TACs)
This page provides information for LEAs regarding the purpose and responsibilities of California's HE TACs.

Homeless Education Liaison Contact Information (XLSX; Updated 4-Oct-2023)
Contact information for Homeless Education liaisons within the State of California.

County Office Homeless Liaison Contact Information (XLSX; Updated 10-Aug-2023)
Contact information for each County Homeless Education Liaison, including website for each county office.

American Rescue Plan - Homeless Children and Youth Fund
The American Rescue Plan Act - Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) fund identifies homeless children and youth, provides wraparound services in light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and helps enable homeless children and youth to attend school and participate fully in school activities. This includes in-person instruction this spring, and summer learning and enrichment programs that begin in the coming months.

ARP-HCY Fund Assurances and Quarterly Report Submission Tool
This includes the ARP-HCY II Assurances and Quarterly Reports. In order for an LEA to receive an allocation, it must submit the ARP-HCY II Assurances. All LEAs within a consortium must also complete the assurances. In addition, all LEAs that received ARP-HCY II funds must submit quarterly expenditure and program reports.

ARP-HCY State Plans
The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has posted all ARP-HCY State Plans on this page. These plans were due on September 7, 2021. Approved State materials will be posted following the review and approval by the ED.

An Overview of the ARP-HCY State Plans (PDF)
The National Center for Homeless Education has released a report that summarizes state educational agencies' strategies for the implementation of the ARP-HCY program and spotlights emerging practices from across the country for effectively using ARP-HCY program funds.

Frequently Asked ARP-HCY Questions and Answers
This page contains responses from ED to common ARP-HCY questions about the implementation of the ARP-HCY program. The ED updates this page periodically.

American Rescue Plan - Homeless Children and Youth Resource Guide
This guidance is to provide LEAs with strategies, resources, and innovative ideas on how to support children and youth experiencing homelessness with ARP-HCY funds. All strategies and suggestions are contributions by LEAs throughout the state and at the national level and are suggested with the intent to remove a barrier to students' education.

California's American Rescue Plan Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III Plan (PPTX)
This presentation elicits stakeholder input on California's ARP Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief III Plan and includes background information regarding the ARP-HCY fund.

Fiscal Management
Fiscal forms and funding results for the Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program grants.

Federal Program Monitoring for Homeless Education (PPTX)
PowerPoint presentation addressing purpose, process, best practices, and homeless instrument details.

Last Reviewed: Wednesday, October 11, 2023

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Provides information and resources for homeless children and youth and their right to enroll, attend, participate fully, and succeed in school.