# data[].attributes.headline
LA County CalWORKs Family Homeless Assistance

# data[].attributes.subject
LA County CalWORKs Family Homeless Assistance

# data[].attributes.body
The CalWORKs Homeless Assistance Programs provide benefits to assist eligible families who are experiencing homelessness by offering temporary and permanent housing assistance. Homelessness is defined as lacking a fixed or regular nighttime residence; and either:

Residing in a shelter; or

Residing in a place not designed as a regular sleeping accommodation (i.e. vehicle or street)

# data[].attributes.headline
Homeless Education Technical Assistance Center (HETAC)

# data[].attributes.subject
Homeless Education Technical Assistance Center (HETAC)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
california homeless education and technical assistance center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home - California Homeless Education and Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Home - California Homeless Education and Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.body
Flyer in English and Spanish

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
METRO- GoPass LIFE Flyer-English and Spanish

# data[].attributes.body
Whether you are a parent, caregiver, provider or member of the general public, the links below can help you find child development resources. These have been reviewed by HMG LA staff. Please review carefully to see if they are right for you. Keep checking! We regularly add new resources. Feel free to share with friends, colleagues, and networks.

Website: https://admin.publichealth.lacounty.gov/mch/helpmegrow/eligibility-services.html

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Eligibility for Services

Statewide network of Family Resource Centers, including an interactive map to help locate offices in your community.

Disability Rights California is a nonprofit legal services organization that helps families of people with disabilities with information and advocacy. Learn tips from DRC to help you and your family advocate to healthcare and other services.Learn information about the rules for private insurance for Early Start services.

Search for a family resource center through the Early Start Family Resource Center Network of Los Angeles County.

Provides help with health care insurance enrollment, troubleshooting, and utilization. If you need help accessing health care, contact a CHOI partner in your area.

Learn about developmental disabilities, who is eligible for regional center services, and how to show the regional center your child is eligible for services.

Prepare for a regional center eligibility hearing for children age three and older who have been denied regional center eligibility.

The Resource and Referral Agency provides assistance at no cost to help parents find childcare that best fits the family's needs. This may include referrals to Head Start and/or Early Head Start, if family meets income eligibility requirements or child has an IFSP or IEP.

Team of Advocates for Special Kids (TASK) is a nonprofit organization that provides special education support for people with disabilities from birth to age 26 and their families. TASK supports all disabilities. The TASK Parent Training and Information (PTI) Center, funded through the US Department of Education, Office of Special Education, is the largest in southern California. Los Angeles County is one of the six southern California counties served.

Early Start Baby Line: 800-515-BABY (2229)

This phone line is staffed by people who work for the state Early Start program; they can help trouble-shoot if parents are having difficulty with enrollment in Early Start services for a child age 0 - 3 with developmental concerns.

These parent-led organizations provide training, information, and advocacy support to families regarding special education.

This is a program of Disability Rights California that focuses on legal rights related to Regional Center services. They provide information and legal assistance. Each Regional Center has a Client's Rights Advocate to help families get the services their child has a right to.

This is a parent-run organization that supports families who have a child with autism or other developmental disabilities.

This organization provides legal assistance regarding special education.

This organization provides information and training to Latino families on how to obtain services for all persons with disabilities. In addition, training is provided to professionals who work with these families.

This organization provides support, information, and guidance for families, who have a relative who has been diagnosed with any type of developmental disability, and to unify them through special events and counseling services.

This organization provides culturally and linguistically relevant services to empower monolingual and bilingual Chinese American families/caretakers with special needs individuals through advocacy, community education, resources and social network support, and to improve the quality of life of special needs individuals.

This organization provides assistance to the parents and families of children with special needs in the Japanese-speaking community. Primary among the activities is the exchange of information regarding available services and programs through regularly scheduled meetings, seminars, e-mails and newsletters. Through related groups, JSPACC has access to a variety of professional speakers, consultants and referral information.

This organization is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.

This organization provides support to individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); to empower them in self-advocacy by way of education, camaraderie and support; and to educate the Armenian Community for a full and meaningful integration of all individuals.

This organization helps to create pathways for teens and adults with autism so that they can develop meaningful relationship, secure desired employment, and find affordable housing while being as self-sufficient as possible.

This organization enhances the quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome by fostering family engagement, encouraging connections, and providing information while promoting inclusion, acceptance and awareness of individuals with Down syndrome.

This organization promotes public awareness of Fragile X Syndrome with special emphasis on educators and health professionals; provide a forum for families and children with Fragile X to meet and share their ideas, concerns and problems; and support scientific research on Fragile X Syndrome.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Help Me Grow | LA - Eligibility Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Help Me Grow LA offers information about eligibility for various child development services and supports in the community. From disability, to family resource and regional centers, to health insurance enrollment, this list of local and state resources can help families address their child's developmental concerns.

# data[].attributes.body
FAFSA Resources:

SHC Training:   Navigating Financial Aid for Refugees and Unaccompanied Homeless  Youth: Understanding Key Differences | SchoolHouse Connection

FAFSA/CADAA Challenge for Students Experiencing Homelessness Policies and Tools - if you have any questions about the challenge, your answers are likely in this document

FAFSA/CADAA Challenge Internal tracking sheet

WinSCP spreadsheet

High School Counselor FAFSA/CADAA Toolkit

Financial Aid Guide for Foster and UHY Youth (available in English and Spanish with Visual Guide

FAFSA/CADAA Webinar Training for Adult Supporter of Youth with Experience in Foster Care of Homelessness (recording)

FAFSA/CADAA Challenge for Students Experiencing Homelessness page

# data[].attributes.body
The State of California is proud to announce the launch of the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS). CalKIDS gives children in California a jump start on saving for college or career training. To be eligible for CalKIDS, participants must be:

1. Born in California on or after July 1, 2022; or

2. An eligible low-income public school student in grades 1-12* in California.

School Staff: Interested in learning more about the program, sign up for a free webinar!

All participants receive a seed deposit in a CalKIDS account to help pay for future education after high school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The State of California is proud to announce the launch of the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS). CalKIDS gives children in California a jump start on saving for college or career training. To be eligible for CalKIDS, participants must be:

1. Born in California on or after July 1, 2022; or

2. An eligible low-income public school student in grades 1-12* in California.

All participants receive a seed deposit in a CalKIDS account to help pay for future education after high school.
"Education is the gateway to opportunity for all California kids. Once a mind is stretched, it can never go back."
-Gavin Newsom, Governor of California
*Please note that eligibility for low-income public school participants is defined by the Local Control Funding Formula.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The State of California is proud to announce the launch of the California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) program.

# data[].attributes.body
Students and Families Experiencing Homelessness

The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Homeless Education Program (HEP) provides assistance to school district and charter schools as they serve and support their student experiencing homelessness. LACOE

HEP works to help district and charter maintain compliance with the McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act, an integral part of the Every Student Succeeds Act.

LACOE HEP focused on ensuring that student experiencing homeless are enrolled, attending school, and thriving during their academic experience.

If you have any questions or need further assistance from LACOE's County Homeless Liaison, contact Dr. Jennifer Kottke with the Homeless Program at (562) 922-6247 or email us at HomelessEd@lacoe.edu.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Homeless Education Program (HEP) provides assistance to school district and charter schools as they serve and support their student experiencing homelessness. LACOE HEP works to help district and charter maintain compliance with the McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act, an integral part of the Every Student Succeeds Act.

# data[].attributes.body
The new California program entitled CalKIDS, is a savings program for California newborns and low-income students in public schools, grades 1st-12th, aimed at expanding higher education access, including college and career training.

To confirm eligibility and learn more about the CalKIDS progra, visit calkids.org

# data[].attributes.headline
LACOE Brochure- Educational Rights of Students Experiencing Homelessness (English)

# data[].attributes.subject
LACOE Brochure- Educational Rights of Students Experiencing Homelessness (English)

# data[].attributes.headline
LACOE Brochure: Derechos Educativos de Estudiantes Sin Hogar (Spanish)

# data[].attributes.subject
LACOE Brochure: Derechos Educativos de Estudiantes Sin Hogar (Spanish)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
LACOE BROCHURE - ED RIGHTS SPANISH 8.6.20

# data[].attributes.headline
Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles

# data[].attributes.subject
Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles

# data[].attributes.body
Information and updates on Public Housing options in the city of Los Angeles.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A list of site-specific wellness, health, education, and career resources for residents who live in each of HACLA's fourteen public housing developments. Page currently under construction.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A list of site-specific wellness, health, education, and career resources for residents who live in each of HACLA's fourteen public housing developments. Page currently under construction.

# data[].attributes.body
If you are homeless, we sincerely hope that we can assist by providing a location where you can obtain pet food, emergency veterinary care and wellness care. We understand the comfort and love that your pet provides.  Please call us at 775-841-7463.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pets of the Homeless | We Provide Food & Care for Pets of the Homeless

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Feeding Pets of the Homeless is the first and one of the only national organization focused exclusively on feeding and providing veterinary care to pets of homeless people.

# data[].attributes.headline
California Homeless Education Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.subject
California Homeless Education Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.body
The California Homeless Education Technical Assistance Center (HETAC) network is funded by the California Department of Education to provide support and technical assistance to county offices of education (COEs), local educational agencies (LEAs), and other interested stakeholders to ensure educational access and success for children and youth experiencing homelessness. The HETAC network is operated by the Contra Costa COE, Los Angeles COE, and San Diego COE.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
california homeless education and technical assistance center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home - California Homeless Education and Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Home - California Homeless Education and Technical Assistance Center

# data[].attributes.headline
Worker Education & Resource Center Training Program

# data[].attributes.subject
Worker Education & Resource Center Training Program

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Worker Education and Resource Center Training Program

# data[].attributes.body
DPSS is offering tutoring services to CalWORKs eligible children and youth.

Who is eligible?
- Children/youth whose parents are in GAIN  &
- CalWORKs aided youth ages 16-18 who are in high school.

Students can  receive up to  4 hours of tutoring per week.

For more information, contact your GAIN Services Worker or call the following Customer Service Numbers: (877) 292- GAIN (4246) or (866) 613-3777.

# data[].attributes.body
The Housing Authority has developed a resource list with possible sources and assistance. The Housing Authority does not endorse these services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Housing Authority Resource List 2021-03-02

# data[].attributes.body
Homework Centers are available to support students in grades 1-12.

Dates: January 13-May 21, 2026.

# data[].attributes.body
Since 2007, this community resource has helped people list and locate housing in the County of Los Angeles, including affordable, special needs, emergency housing, and more. Listing and searches are free.

For help, call 1-877-428-8844 (toll free)
Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. - 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Dial 7-1-1 for TTY.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Housing.LACounty.gov | LA County Apartments | LA County Rental Homes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Search and list all types of rental housing for free, from apartments to homes with a yard in Los Angeles County

# data[].attributes.headline
Los Angeles Housing + Community Investment Department- Affordable Housing

# data[].attributes.subject
Los Angeles Housing + Community Investment Department- Affordable Housing

# data[].attributes.body
Type in an address/Zip Code within LA County to locate various services, including Homeless Shelters, food pantries, and low-cost clinics.

# data[].attributes.body
The CES facilitates the coordination and management of resources and services through the crisis response system. CES allows users to efficiently and effectively connect people to interventions that aim to rapidly resolve their housing crisis. CES works to connect the highest need, most vulnerable persons in the community to available housing and supportive services equitably.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Systemic racism leads to a disproportionate number of black folks becoming homeless in LA County, where 8% of the overall population is black, but black people represent 34% of those experiencing homelessness.

Historically, redlining and other racist practices have led to disinvestment in black communities over many years, leading to disparities in education, health care, and employment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Systemic racism leads to a disproportionate number of black folks becoming homeless in LA County, where 8% of the overall population is black, but black people represent 34% of those experiencing homelessness. Historically, redlining and other racist practices have led to disinvestment in black communities over many years, leading to disparities in education, health care, and employment.

# data[].attributes.headline
CES Education Coordinator Assignments and Contact Information (Updated 12.10.2025)

# data[].attributes.subject
CES Education Coordinator Assignments and Contact Information (Updated 12.10.2025)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
4. CES Education Coordinator Assignment 2025-2026

# data[].attributes.body
Please verify the referral process and agency email/fax with your designated CES Education Coordinator.

# data[].attributes.body
Distributes food and other essentials to children, seniors, families and other individuals in need

Enter your address below to find your local food pantry. Note: Pantry distribution dates and times are subject to change.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Locate a Partner Agency | LA Regional Food Bank

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are you or someone you know in need of food assistance? Find a soup kitchen, food pantry or senior center in Los Angeles County that is close to you.

# data[].attributes.body
Anywhere in America. Any time of year. Everyone should be able to find help.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking for help with food? Privately search on FoodFinder's website for help near you. Use our map of 50,000+ free food programs to find help in your community.

# data[].attributes.headline
LA County Nutrition Assistance Resources

# data[].attributes.subject
LA County Nutrition Assistance Resources

# data[].attributes.headline
Enhanced Emergency Shelter Program (EESP)

# data[].attributes.subject
Enhanced Emergency Shelter Program (EESP)

# data[].attributes.body
The Enhanced Emergency Shelter Program (EESP) is a 60-day temporary shelter for Transition Age Youth (TAY) who are:

Between 18-25 years old

homeless or at risk of homelessness in LA County

Experiencing mental health issues

Willing to seek mental health treatment

No income or low income and unable to pay for housing

# data[].attributes.headline
Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking 

# data[].attributes.subject
Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking 

# data[].attributes.body
To access human trafficking resources, please contact the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking at 1-888-539-2373. This hotline is available 24/7.

# data[].attributes.body
To access domestic violence services, please contact The LA County Domestic Violence at      1-800-978-3600.

This hotline is available 24 hours a day/7 days per week (24/7), including holidays.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Council (DVC) provides leadership in the creation and support of a victim/survivor-centered, coordinated countywide approach to addressing intimate partner violence. The DVC is housed in the Health Promotion Bureau of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. See this infographic for a summary of the DVC.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call or text 911.

COVID-19 Vaccine information page

If you need help or support for addressing Domestic Violence , please call the DV Hotline at (800) 978-3600. See additional hotlines here.

Intimate Partner Violence Service Providers, including Shelters, Legal and Support Services, remain available remotely for those in need. All shelters are practicing safe COVID-19 protocols.

If you or someone you know needs support, shelter or other services, call for assistance:

The Domestic Violence Council holds a General Meeting on the third Tuesday of every month (except August and December) from 12 noon to 2pm. Dates/times may be subject to change, so check the agenda for updated meeting information. There are also six (6) committees that meet regularly. The public is welcome to attend all meetings. Refer to the links below for details.

The Office of the Domestic Violence Council is open and operating remotely Monday through Friday from 8:30 to 5:30 p.m. If you would like to receive our daily email updates or you would like to contact us, please email: dvc@ph.lacounty.gov.

NOTE: The Office of the Domestic Violence Council does not provide direct services. However, domestic violence agencies in Los Angeles County are available to provide services. Please call the LA County DV Hotline at 800-978-3600 to reach a DV Agency. The hotline is available 24/7.

Policy/Legislation Related Issues: The California Partnership to End Domestic Violence, the statewide DV Coalition (CPEDV) operates a Policy Council that discusses statewide legislation, issues and other policy considerations related to DV. The membership of the Council includes representatives from all areas of the state. If you have state level policy/legislation related issues that you would like to discuss or learn more about, please contact one of the Los Angeles members of the Policy Council on this list.

Contact us

phone: (213) 974-2799
email: dvc@ph.lacounty.gov

We are working to ensure that this website provides useful information and meets the needs of our community. If you have a comment or suggestion, please use this form.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Council (DVC) provides leadership in the creation and support of a victim/survivor-centered, coordinated countywide approach to addressing intimate partner violence. The DVC is housed in the Health Promotion Bureau of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. See this infographic for a summary of the DVC.

# data[].attributes.headline
Los Angeles Domestic Violence Legal Services Resources

# data[].attributes.subject
Los Angeles Domestic Violence Legal Services Resources

# data[].attributes.body
A website for Los Angeles County Residents to apply for and to view their benefits online.

Apply for:

CalWORKs

CalFresh

General Relief

MediCal

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
YourBenefitsNow! is a website for Los Angeles County Residents to apply for and to view their benefits online. Click any of the navigation links in the center panel to get started. Currently, YourBenefitsNow! supports CalWORKs, CalFresh, General Relief and MediCal applications. If you need help in your language, call your local county office.

# data[].attributes.body
Website: www.phfewic.org

WIC is for all types of families: married and single parents, working or not working. If you are a father, mother, grandparent, foster parent, or other guardian of a child under five, you can apply for WIC. You can also apply if you are pregnant or had a pregnancy loss within the last 6 months.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
WIC Outreach Template (English and Spanish).pdf-2022

# data[].attributes.body
A national non-profit organization working to overcome homelessness through education. We provide strategic advocacy and practical assistance in partnership with early childhood programs, schools, institutions of higher education, service providers, families, and youth.

# data[].attributes.body
MAMA's Neighborhood is a prenatal and parenting services program partnering with mothers and communities to give families a strong start in life.

The program offers healthcare and support programming for pregnant women, new moms and their families.

https://dhs.lacounty.gov/womens-health/our-services/womens-health/prenatal/

# data[].attributes.body
Supporting our most vulnerable neighbors with delivered meals while connecting workers and job seekers to federal, state, and local resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Los Angeles County@CountyofLA
LA County's adjusted case rate has remained under 25 new cases per 100,000 people for 5 consecutive days, meeting the state requirements for schools to open on-site learning for grades TK-6. For details and more info, visit https://t.co/Tddr9rjDOi https://t.co/qjhdfqDmkf

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Los Angeles County @CountyofLA LA County's adjusted case rate has remained under 25 new cases per 100,000 people for 5 consecutive days, meeting the state requirements for schools to open on-site learning for grades TK-6. For details and more info, visit https://t.co/Tddr9rjDOi https://t.co/qjhdfqDmkf

# data[].attributes.headline
Neighborhood Legal Services of LA County 

# data[].attributes.subject
Neighborhood Legal Services of LA County 

# data[].attributes.body
NLSLA attorneys work to reduce the effects of poverty in low-income communities.

Legal Services include:

Housing

Domestic Violence/Family

Public Benefits

Immigration

Unemployment Benefits

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
PACT Program
800-942-1054

Child support Department
866-901-3212

San Gabriel Valley GAIN Career Center
877-292-4246

Emergency Management
800-980-4990

IHSS Ombudsman
800-678-4477 (within Los Angeles County only)

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
844-586-5550

Child Abuse
800-540-4000

Civil Rights Complaint
562-908-8501

Child Care Hotline
877-CHILD99 or 877-244-5399

Appeals and State Hearings
800-952-5253

Emergency Management
800-980-4990

Domestic Violence
800-978-3600

Elder Abuse
877-477-3646

Mental Health
800-854-7771

Safely Surrender Baby
877-222-9723

Substance Use Disorder
844-804-7500

Welfare Fraud
800-349-9970

Women's Health
800-793-8090

California State Bar (Attorney Complaints)
800-843-9053

Senior Legal Hotline
800-222-1753

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
PACT Program 800-942-1054 Child support Department 866-901-3212 San Gabriel Valley GAIN Career Center 877-292-4246 Emergency Management 800-980-4990 IHSS Ombudsman 800-678-4477 (within Los Angeles County only) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 844-586-5550 Child Abuse 800-540-4000 Civil Rights Complaint 562-908-8501 Child Care Hotline 877-CHILD99 or 877-244-5399 Appeals and State Hearings 800-952-5253 Emergency Management 800-980-4990 Domestic Violence 800-978-3600 Elder Abuse 877-477-3646 Mental Health 800-854-7771 Safely Surrender Baby 877-222-9723 Substance Use Disorder 844-804-7500 Welfare Fraud 800-349-9970 Women's Health 800-793-8090 California State Bar (Attorney Complaints) 800-843-9053 Senior Legal Hotline 800-222-1753

# data[].attributes.body
Languille Shelter and Hawkes Residence provides housing for women experiencing homelessness.

Farley House Transitional Residence provides shelter for homeless mothers and their children under 18 (up to two children).

If you need shelter please call (213) 235-1460.

Referrals/Applications can be requested by emailing intakes@gschomeless.org

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
GOOD SHEPHERD

Need Shelter?

Living at Good Shepherd Center is an experience designed to empower you to achieve your goals. Our residents are committed to achieving the ultimate objectives of securing permanent housing and employment. We work with you in a loving and supportive environment so that you may become the person you want to be. If you need shelter please call (213) 235-1460.

Languille Shelter and Hawkes Residence provides housing for women experiencing homelessness.

Farley House Transitional Residence provides shelter for homeless mothers and their children under 18 (up to two children).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
GOOD SHEPHERD NEED OUR HELP? Need Shelter? Living at Good Shepherd Center is an experience designed to empower you to achieve your goals. Our residents are committed to achieving the ultimate objectives of securing permanent housing and employment. We work with you in

# data[].attributes.body
Eighty libraries throughout LA County provide Sidewalk Service to patrons, including:

Library card registration

Book loan and returns

Laptop and Hotspot loans

Printing pickup

Visit website for full-list of participating sites and contact information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Beginning Monday, June 8, holds will be available for pick up at select libraries, Monday - Friday, 10 am - 5 pm.

# data[].attributes.body
Need help now? Call the 24-hour English-Spanish hotline at (310) 547-9343

Rainbow Services provides shelter and support to anyone impacted by domestic violence, empowering them to move beyond trauma, towards safety & stability.

If you or someone you know is in need of domestic violence support, shelter or resources, call our 24-hour confidential Spanish/English hotline: 310-547-9343

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you are seeking shelter or need crisis assistance, please call our 24-hour hotline at (310) 547-9343.

This contact form is for non-crisis inquiries; please allow two business days for a reply. We will not respond over the weekend, or on holidays. For assistance on the weekend or holidays, please call our 24-hour hotline, at (310) 547-9343.

Please consider your safety when contacting us via email, as an abusive partner may monitor your email accounts. Our reply will not mention domestic violence or abuse. We're here to help. (310) 547-9343.

If you need to clear your internet browsing history, get step-by-step instructions on WikiHow here (for desktop and mobile versions of Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer, and Safari).
For questions regarding our social media, newsletters, or events, please contact communications@rainbowservicesdv.org

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This contact form is for non-crisis inquiries; please allow two business days for a reply. We will not respond over the weekend, or on holidays. For assistance on the weekend or holidays, please call our 24-hour hotline, at (310) 547-9343. Please consider your safety when contacting us via email, as an abusive partner may monitor your email accounts.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fact Sheet Youth Employment Opportunity Program

# data[].attributes.body
Website: https://www.lahsa.org/news?article=592-safe-parking

WHAT IS SAFE PARKING?
The Safe Parking Program provides vehicle dwellers with a safe and legal place to park and sleep at night.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE SAFE PARKING PROGRAM?

Safe Parking Programs may be available to persons who meet the following criteria:

Individual or family who is experiencing homelessness or actively fleeing domestic violence, living in their vehicle, and has an operable vehicle.

WHAT SERVICES DOES THE SAFE PARKING PROGRAM PROVIDE?

Access to park a vehicle in a safe parking lot with onsite security and restrooms.

Access to have a Coordinated Entry System (CES) assessment completed.

Referrals and linkages to community resources.

Access to case management, financial assistance and benefit connection.

Site amenities may vary according to each site.

WHERE CAN I ACCESS THIS PROGRAM?

Safe Parking programs can be accessed by contacting or visiting a service provider in your area.

# data[].attributes.headline
Locate your Early Head Start and Head Start Program 

# data[].attributes.subject
Locate your Early Head Start and Head Start Program 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our impact doesn't stop in the classroom! Unique collaborations allow the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) Head Start and Early Learning Division to offer additional programs that deliver meaningful services to help children and families. These collaborations also provide resources to improve recruiting and outreach, increase teacher support, and enhance the services we offer.

To learn more about these programs, contact us!

211 LA County is a nonprofit agency that connects individuals and families with health and human services. Just by dialing 2-1-1, LA County residents will be directly connected to a Community Resource Advisor who will provide the right resources based on the caller's unique needs. Our partnership with 211 LA County makes it easier for children and families who are eligible for LACOE services to connect to the right programs, resources, and early childhood education providers.

Quality Start Los Angeles (QSLA) is a quality rating and improvement system (QRIS) for early learning providers in Los Angeles County. QSLA is part of a larger state and national movement to acknowledge and support early learning providers as they continuously elevate the quality of care for children birth to five and their families.

QSLA aims to improve the program quality of participating centers and family childcare homes by offering instructional supports and incentives for programs, teachers and administrators to reach higher levels of quality.

QSLA is a joint effort of the Los Angeles County Office of Education, First 5 LA, Child360, Child Care Alliance of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Office for the Advancement of Early Care and Education, PEACH and the Local Planning Council. QSLA is also part of Quality Counts California, which helps to connect parents and families to high-quality early learning and care programs, and ensures that infants, toddlers, and preschool-age children have quality early learning experiences in their local communities. To find out more about how a particular program scores on each element of quality, click here: http://qualitystartla.org/qsla-ratings/
Learn more>>

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to Los Angeles County Office of Education Head Start and Early Learning DivisionDiscover the Power of Early Learning

# data[].attributes.headline
FAQ on the Education Rights of Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness 

# data[].attributes.subject
FAQ on the Education Rights of Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness 

# data[].attributes.body
This FAQ provides answers to frequently asked questions on the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act and the education rights of children and youth in homeless situations.1

The answers are general responses based on the law. This document is meant to provide basic information and tools to assist parents, youth, educators and advocates in understanding the McKinney-Vento Act.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
FAQ on Homelessnes and the Education Rights of Homeless Children and Youth

# data[].attributes.headline
Locate your Early Head Start and Head Start Program 

# data[].attributes.subject
Locate your Early Head Start and Head Start Program 

# data[].attributes.body
Offers the following for families experiencing homelessness or students living in a group home setting:

One-on-one online tutoring

School supplies

Assistance in entering school

Scholarships

Parental support

On-line Tutoring Referral Form:
If you would like more information about tutoring services, please fill out the following information or call School On Wheels at 1-800-923-1100.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Ver esta página en español For Parents & Students: Community Resources
We offer the following for families experiencing homelessness or students living in a group home setting:

One-on-one online tutoring

School supplies

Assistance in entering school

Scholarships

Parental support

You can also download our Family Flyer to share with families in need: Download English / Spanish Flyer

If you would like more information about tutoring services, please fill out the following information or call us at 800-923-1100. Please fill in the following information so that we can provide a tutor as soon as possible (currently only available in Southern California).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Ver esta página en español For Parents & Students: Community Resources We offer the following for families experiencing homelessness or students living in a group home setting: You can also ...

# data[].attributes.body
This website will help identify what SPA a specific address belongs to.

You will need to enter a full-address for the site to work properly. If you have any questions or need further support, please reach our to an Education Coordinator.

# data[].attributes.body
Rental listings are updated monthly

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A monthly listing of affordable housing opportunities in the Los Angeles and Ventura areas, created by the Housing Rights Center.

# data[].attributes.body
Fair Housing is your right.

Talk to a housing counselor today.

HOUSING RIGHTS HOTLINE:

1-800-477-5977

TTY: 1-213-201-0867

email: info@housingrightscenter.org

www.housingrightscenter.org

# data[].attributes.headline
SHC Highlights and Recap of Q1, January-March 2022

# data[].attributes.subject
SHC Highlights and Recap of Q1, January-March 2022

# data[].attributes.body
In case you missed it, here are the latest news, resources, and updates from the world of education and homelessness from January, February, and March.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Policy Updates:

Congress Passes Fiscal Year 2022 Spending Package [Learn More]

The FAFSA Simplification Act: Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care [See Details]

Support Homeless and Foster Youth in Higher Education: Take Action to Support Four Federal Bills [Take Two Minutes]

State Laws on Vital Records for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness [Learn More]

Tools and Resources: Earned Income Tax Credit: FAFSA:

FAFSA Priority Deadlines Approaching [See Deadlines]

Most Frequently Asked Questions from NASFAA's Webinar on Helping Homeless Youth with the FAFSA [Get Answers]

Inform Students Experiencing Homelessness of the FAFSA [Use This Email Template]

Sample Form Letters to Determine Independent Student Status of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth for the FAFSA [Download Samples]

More FAFSA resources can be found on our dedicated FAFSA page [All Things FAFSA]

American Rescue Plan-Homeless Children & Youth Spotlights:
SHC is excited to share some of the great ways that states and districts are using American Rescue Plan-Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) funds.

Minneapolis Public Schools, Minnesota

School District of Janesville, Wisconsin

Middletown Public Schools, Rhode Island

Wilbur Mills Education Service Cooperative, Arkansas

Roanoke City Schools, Virginia

Marion County Schools, Alabama

Akron Public Schools, Ohio

Durham Public Schools, North Carolina

[Learn How They Are Using ARP-HCY Funds]

Archived Webinars: Guest Blogs: SchoolHouse Connection Opportunities: SchoolHouse Connection in the News:

A school created a homeless shelter in the gym and it paid off in the classroom
The Hechinger Report - March 17, 2022

Federal funds to help thousands of Georgia's homeless students
The Atlanta Journal Constitution - March 15, 2022

House spending bill lowballs key Biden education requests
Industry Dive - March 10, 2022

Differing federal policies keep homeless students from getting help
Industry Dive - March 7, 2022

I experienced homelessness. Lawmakers, help young Floridians like me find independence | Opinion
Miami Herald - March 4, 2022

CCSD counts fewer homeless students during pandemic, but numbers picking up
Las Vegas Review-Journal - February 18, 2022

Homeless youth and children are wildly undercounted, advocates say.
NPR - February 15, 2022

Disabilities sometimes go undiagnosed in homeless students targeted by new federal education funds, experts say
Youth Today - February 2, 2022

GAO: Schools with vulnerable students face 'heightened challenges' post-natural disaster
Industry Dive - January 19, 2022

Child homelessness is on the rise. Schools may just be seeing the 'tip of the iceberg'
The Center of Public Integrity - January 14, 2022

700,000 US Teens Navigate School Without Family Support or Permanent Housing
Truthout - January 3, 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SHC Highlights and Recap of Q1, January-March 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Policy Updates: Congress Passes Fiscal Year 2022 Spending Package [Learn More] The FAFSA Simplification Act: Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care [See Details] Support Homeless and Foster Youth in Higher Education: Take Action to Support Four Federal Bills [Take Two Minutes] State Laws on Vital Records

# data[].attributes.headline
Supporting California’s Homeless & Low-Income College Students:A Practical Guide

# data[].attributes.subject
Supporting California’s Homeless & Low-Income College Students:A Practical Guide

# data[].attributes.body
SchoolHouse Connection Guide

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
AULA- Bridge Recruitment Flyer 2020-2021 (1)

# data[].attributes.headline
My Undocumented Life: UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION & RESOURCES FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS

# data[].attributes.subject
My Undocumented Life: UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION & RESOURCES FOR UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS

# data[].attributes.body
https://mydocumentedlife.org/

At My Undocumented Life we provide up-to-date information and resources for undocumented immigrants and allies. We post scholarship opportunities that are open to undocumented students, strategies for navigating the educational system, information on how to apply for DACA/Advance Parole, news on DAPA, and much more. Most importantly, we want to provide a sense of community to our diverse group of readers. Learn more about our work here: “About Us“

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Up-to-date information & resources for undocumented students, families, and allies

# data[].attributes.body
Comprehensive list of food banks across all of LA County, organized by SPA and with distribution details.  (Updated 3/30/21)

# data[].attributes.headline
America's Job Centers of California (AJCC)

# data[].attributes.subject
America's Job Centers of California (AJCC)

# data[].attributes.body
AJCC sites offer Employment and Training Services to the community, including:

Vocational Training

College Enrollment Assistance

Assistance with Financial Aid

Paid Work Experience and Internships

Career and Educational Workshops

Job Search Assistance and Job Placement

They also have a specialized program for TAY ages 14-24 who meet certain criteria.

Website: https://www.careeronestop.org/localhelp/americanjobcenters/find-american-job-centers.aspx

# data[].attributes.headline
New Voice Immigration DACA Support Services

# data[].attributes.subject
New Voice Immigration DACA Support Services

# data[].attributes.body
Help for qualified youth people to apply for Deferred Action and Employment Authorization.

# data[].attributes.headline
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Student Services

# data[].attributes.subject
Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) Student Services

# data[].attributes.body
If you are a student from age 16-21 with and IEP, 504 Plan, or a disability, DOR Student Student Services can provide job exploration and preparation to ensure you receive the skills and knowledge necessary to reach your education, career, and life goals.

Call your local DOR Office
Email: YouthServices@dor.ca.gov
Visit: www.dor.ca.gov

# data[].attributes.headline
New Voice Immigration Assistance Services

# data[].attributes.subject
New Voice Immigration Assistance Services

# data[].attributes.body
Our mission is to serve and empower immigrant communities through the services offered by our immigration legal office, and to guide and equip churches to open new immigration legal offices.

Website:
http://www.new-voice.org/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
New Voice Brochure Immigration Assitance Services

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Low-Cost Veterinary Services in LA County

# data[].attributes.headline
LA County District Attorney's Office: Victim Services

# data[].attributes.subject
LA County District Attorney's Office: Victim Services

# data[].attributes.body
Victim services representatives work in courthouses and police stations, providing an array of services to help victims become survivors. Staff members are available to assist victims in several languages. Program services are provided free of charge and there is no legal residency or citizenship requirement.

To learn about services provided by the Bureau of Victim Services, please click here.

For a list of Victim Services offices, please click here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is committed to helping victims of crime and protecting their rights. The Bureau of Victim Services provides essential services to crime victims and witnesses in Los Angeles County.

Victim services representatives work in courthouses and police stations, providing an array of services to help victims become survivors. Staff members are available to assist victims in several languages. Program services are provided free of charge and there is no legal residency or citizenship requirement. To learn about services provided by the Bureau of Victim Services, please click here. For a list of Victim Services offices, please click here.

District Attorney personnel also can assist crime victims with the processing of claims with the California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB). For more information, call (800) 492-5944.

For more information on CalVCB, call toll-free (800) 777-9229. You also may access program information at www.vcgcb.ca.gov/victims or by writing to CalVCB, P.O. Box 3036, Sacramento, CA 95812-3036.

In addition, the Bureau of Victim Services oversees an annual Holiday Giving Drive that provides gifts to crime victims and their families. To learn more about the Holiday Giving Drive, please click here.

To reach the District Attorney's Bureau of Victim Services, call (800) 380-3811.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is committed to helping victims of crime and protecting their rights. The Bureau of Victim Services provides essential services to crime victims and witnesses in Los Angeles County. Victim services representatives work in courthouses and police stations, providing an array of services to help victims become survivors.

# data[].attributes.headline
Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP)

# data[].attributes.subject
Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP)

# data[].attributes.body
The City of Los Angeles’s Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP) was created to assist homeless individuals with open or unpaid parking citations, by allowing him/her to pay in the form of community service.

For more information email us at Ladot.capp@lacity.org or call (213) 978-4400.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The City of Los Angeles's Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP) was created to assist homeless individuals with open or unpaid parking citations, by allowing him/her to pay in the form of community service. The Los Angeles City Council authorized the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) to establish CAPP on February 14, 2017.

Participants of CAPP must provide a proof of completion form to the City of Los Angeles upon completion of service hours. To estimate how many hours are required for a fine click here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Community Assistance Parking Program Information - LADOT

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The City of Los Angeles's Community Assistance Parking Program (CAPP) was created to assist homeless individuals with open or unpaid parking citations, by allowing him/her to pay in the form of community service. The Los Angeles City Council authorized the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) to establish CAPP on February 14, 2017.

# data[].attributes.headline
CES Access Point Directory (Updated 11.3.22)

# data[].attributes.subject
CES Access Point Directory (Updated 11.3.22)

# data[].attributes.body
Updated 6.30.21

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
CES Access Point Directory November 2022

# data[].attributes.body
Youth Shelter Program

14-21 day emergency 6-bed youth shelter. Services are free.

Serves youth in any crisis, ages 10-17. All genders. VOLUNTARY.

Homeless/runaway, victims of trafficking, conflicts at home/environment, DCFS or Probationary youth with no placement.

No geographical boundary, out-of-state OK.

Counseling and therapy, life skills training, supervised outings 24-hour Crisis/Suicide hotline/Intake (310)379-3620

Please note that although the potential participant is unaccompanied, they must have parental/guardian consent to be enrolled at the shelter since they are minors.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
1736 Family Crisis Center Youth Services Flyer 2021

# data[].attributes.body
Emergency shelter for all genders ages 12-17, from all geographic areas with 24/7 crisis line and intake availability.

24-hour crisis hotline:
1 (800) 914-CASA (2272).

10911 Reagan St. Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Phone (562) 594-6825 or (714) 995-8601 | (800) 914-CASA

casayouthshelter.org

# data[].attributes.headline
Angel’s Flight for Runaway and Homeless Youth

# data[].attributes.subject
Angel’s Flight for Runaway and Homeless Youth

# data[].attributes.body
Angel’s Flight accepts youth who:

are ages 10 through 17 years old

have run from home

have become homeless,

and/or are at risk.

The goal is to reunite youth with their families or refer them to a licensed group home or foster care setting.

Angel's Flight

57 S Westlake Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90057

Phone: (213) 318-5730 (24 Hours)
(800) 833-2499 (Shelter/24 Hour Intake)

Website: https://catholiccharitiesla.org/angels-flight-for-runaway-and-homeless-youth/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Guide Children and Teens

Runaway teens, most of whom are fleeing abusive families, find refuge at Angel's Flight near Hollywood. The Shelter program accepts youth, ages 10 through 17 years old who have run from home, have become homeless, or are at risk. Clients find out about the shelter, located in the Westlake District, from outreach efforts, other agencies in the community, and other social service providers. Services are provided on a voluntary basis and the youth may leave at any time, recognizing that their program ends when they leave. The Shelter's goal is to complete the case plan for each resident within three days of his/her first day of residency. Each child participates fully in planning his/her transition from the Shelter to his/her new home. All youth at the Shelter are provided food, clothing and shelter and are assigned a counselor or therapist to assist in family reunification. The staff at the Shelter address the youths' medical, emotional, and mental health needs. Individual, family and group counseling are provided. The youth are involved in a number of activities at the Shelter, including participation in an accredited school program provided by the Los Angeles Unified School District. Substance abuse treatment and recovery, mental health counseling, food and toiletries, job search guidance, gang prevention and intervention, tutoring, art, dance and music instruction are central program services. These events are designed to increase their socialization skills and to extend community and self-awareness. The shelter is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The program includes a drop-in center and an outreach component, reaching at least 3,000 adolescents each year, with services focused on emotional healing, growth and empowerment.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Angel's Flight for Runaway and Homeless Youth - Catholic Charities of LA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Runaway teens, most of whom are fleeing abusive families, find refuge at Angel's Flight near Hollywood. The Shelter program accepts youth, ages 10 through 17 years old who have run from home, have become homeless, or are at risk.

# data[].attributes.body
Winter Shelter Program

Due to forecasted weather, County Weather-Activated Shelters will remain open from Monday, November 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. until Thursday, March 31, 2022 at 7:00 a.m.

Should you or someone else need shelter, feel free to call 2-1-1 and/or the shelter hotline number 1-800-548-6047 to inquire about bed availability and to be granted access to transportation.

To access the most updated versions of the English and Spanish

Winter Shelter Program Flyers, please click on these links:

Winter Shelter List - English

Winter Shelter List - Spanish

** Please note that these fliers are updated frequently. We suggest bookmarking

these links on your personal device. **

# data[].attributes.body
Provides information and resources regarding L.A. County’s Temporary Eviction Moratorium

Questions?

Call a Rent Stabilization Counselor at (833) 223-RENT (7368) or Email at: rent@dcba.lacounty.gov

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Los Angeles County Department of Consumer & Business Affairs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
About L.A. County's Temporary Eviction Moratorium

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Los Angeles County Temporary Eviction Moratorium, effective March 4, 2020, through February 28, 2021*, unless repealed or extended by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, places a Countywide ban on evictions for residential and commercial* tenants, including mobilehome space renters.

# data[].attributes.body
The Campus Peer Navigator Program aims to connect community college students who are experiencing homelessness or at-risk of homelessness with resources that can end their housing crisis.

# data[].attributes.headline
The FAFSA Simplification Act: Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care 

# data[].attributes.subject
The FAFSA Simplification Act: Unaccompanied Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care 

# data[].attributes.body
For more information, please visit:  https://schoolhouseconnection.org/the-fafsa-simplification-act/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Postsecondary attainment is increasingly necessary to move out of poverty, and live a healthy life. Yet youth experiencing homelessness and youth from foster care face unique barriers in transitioning to and completing postsecondary education. One of the most significant barriers is access to financial aid; without financial aid, they cannot transition to and complete their college education, and remain at higher risk of continued homelessness and hardship as adults.

Unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness are not living with, or supported by, a parent or guardian. Therefore, under the Higher Education Act, they are considered independent students and do not need to provide a parent's signature or information about parents' income on the FAFSA. Similarly, youth who were in foster care after age 13 are considered independent students. Despite these policies, a 2016 Government Accountability Office report found that burdensome financial aid program rules make it more difficult for both unaccompanied homeless youth and youth from foster care to obtain federal financial assistance for college.

The FAFSA Simplification Act (enacted as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and updated by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022) aims to remove many of the barriers faced by youth experiencing homelessness or with experience in foster care. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) started implementing the FAFSA Simplification Act in phases with the 2023-2024 FAFSA and released further guidance in April 2023. The changes for homeless and foster youth are summarized below.

1. Homeless or foster care status does not need to be redetermined every year.

Under the FAFSA Simplification Act, any student who is determined to be an unaccompanied homeless youth, or a former foster youth, for a preceding award year is presumed to be independent for each subsequent year at the same institution, unless the student informs the institution that circumstances have changed, or the institution has specific conflicting information about the student's independence, and has informed the student of this information. According to guidance issued by ED in April 2023, renewal applicants who had their 2023-24 FAFSA form processed as an independent student due to a homeless youth determination are eligible to have their status carried forward if their circumstances remain unchanged and they are enrolled at the same institution for 2024-25. While schools may ask students if their homeless situation has changed, they may not maintain a practice that delays or hinders the awarding and/or disbursement of federal student aid, nor require them to submit additional documentation unless there is conflicting information that the institution needs to resolve.

In the past, delays in determinations have caused delays in aid, exacerbating financial hardship and basic needs challenges. Under FAFSA Simplification, determinations must be made as quickly as possible, may be made as early as the year before the award year for which the student submits the application, and must not be made later than during the award year for which the student initially submits the application.

Homeless youth receive services from an array of providers and educators. Under the FAFSA Simplification Act, additional individuals are authorized to verify this status. Authorized entities include:

School district homeless liaisons or their designee;

The director or a designee of a director of an emergency or transitional shelter, street outreach program, homeless youth drop-in center, or other program serving individuals who are experiencing homelessness;

The director or a designee of a director of a program funded under a TRIO or Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for an Undergraduate program ("GEAR UP") grant;

A financial aid administrator at the current institution or at another institution who previously made a determination.

These entities can use this sample form letter to provide unaccompanied homeless youth with a determination.

For unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness, documentation from one of the authorized entities may include a documented phone call, written statement, or verifiable electronic data match.

A court order or official State documentation that the student received Federal or State support in foster care

A documented phone call, written statement, or verifiable electronic data match, which confirms the student was in foster care at an applicable age

A documented phone call or a written statement from an attorney, a guardian ad litem, or a Court Appointed Special Advocate that confirms that the student was in foster care at an applicable age, and documents the person's relationship to the student, or

Verification of the student's eligibility for an education and training voucher under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program.

Public schools are required to proactively identify unaccompanied homeless youth, inform them of their status as independent students, and help them get documentation. However, many unaccompanied homeless youth still are not identified in high school - and many youth become homeless after high school. In addition, there are very few shelters or other services for homeless youth. This means that financial aid administrators will continue to have a large role in making determinations of unaccompanied homeless youth status. Under the FAFSA Simplification Act:

Financial aid administrators must make determinations for unaccompanied homeless youth who are unable to get determinations from other entities.

These determinations must be based on a written statement from, or a documented interview with, a student that confirms that a student is an unaccompanied homeless youth (or unaccompanied, at risk, and self-supporting).

The determination must be made based on the legal definitions of homeless and unaccompanied contained in the education subtitle of the McKinney-Vento Act, and independently from the reasons that the student is an unaccompanied homeless youth, or is a youth who is unaccompanied, at risk of homelessness, and self-supporting.

Financial aid administrators can watch this role-playing video and use this template to see how to conduct an unaccompanied homeless youth documented interview. Alternatively, financial aid administrators can request students to fill out this written statement . Both of these examples are acceptable forms of documentation for unaccompanied homeless youth determinations.

The FAFSA Simplification Act requires the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that the 2024-2025 FAFSA will have a single question on homelessness status.

The question must be an "easily understood screening question" to identify an applicant who is an unaccompanied homeless youth, or unaccompanied, at risk of homelessness, and self-supporting.

The question must be "distinct from those relating to an individual who does not have access to parental income due to an unusual circumstance."

The FAFSA Simplification Act also permits students to complete the FAFSA as a "provisional" independent student if they believe they may qualify for independent status due to unusual situations such as parental abandonment, abuse, neglect, legally granted asylum, or student or parental incarceration. While these situations are frequently the cause of, or contributing factors to, youth homelessness, it is important to note that the new homeless and foster youth provisions are different and distinct from the new provisional independent student status. Unlike the provisional independent student status provision, financial aid administrators must make determinations for unaccompanied homeless youth and foster youth, following the processes outlined in the law - it is not a matter of their professional judgment. However, the provisional independent provisions may be helpful for youth who are neither homeless nor former foster youth, but who nonetheless have extenuating circumstances that preclude being able to obtain parental information.

Applicants must still indicate an unusual circumstance and request a determination of independence with their school. Starting in the 2024-25 FAFSA, students can submit their application under a provisional independent status until the financial aid office makes a determination. This will allow such applicants to receive a Student Aid Index (SAI) with an estimate of their Federal student aid eligibility, subject to a final determination by their school. Financial aid administrators must:

Notify students of the school's process, requirements, and reasonable timeline to review adjustment requests after their FAFSA form is submitted;

Provide students with a final determination of their dependency status and financial aid award as soon as practicable after reviewing all requested documentation;

Retain all documentation, including documented interviews, related to the adjustment for at least 3 years after the student's last term of enrollment; and

Presume that any student who has obtained an adjustment for unusual circumstances and a final determination of independence to be independent for each subsequent award year at the same institution unless the student informs the institution that their circumstances have changed or the institution has conflicting information about the student's independence.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The FAFSA Simplification Act: Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The FAFSA Simplification Act (enacted as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and updated by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022) aims to remove many of the barriers faced by youth experiencing homelessness or with experience in foster care. The new provisions for homeless and foster youth are in effect for the 2023-2024 award year, here's a summary of the changes.

# data[].attributes.headline
Most Frequently Asked Questions from NASFAA’s Webinar Helping Homeless Youth with the FAFSA

# data[].attributes.subject
Most Frequently Asked Questions from NASFAA’s Webinar Helping Homeless Youth with the FAFSA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
23-24 Most Frequently Asked Questions from NASFAA’s Webinar Helping Homeless Youth with the FAFSA

# data[].attributes.headline
FAFSA Guide for Unaccompanied Youth Who Have Experienced Homelessness

# data[].attributes.subject
FAFSA Guide for Unaccompanied Youth Who Have Experienced Homelessness

# data[].attributes.headline
Sample Form Letters to Determine the Independent Student Status of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth

# data[].attributes.subject
Sample Form Letters to Determine the Independent Student Status of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Another ESSA amendment to the McKinney-Vento Act requires school district liaisons to inform unaccompanied homeless youth of their status as independent students for financial aid (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA) and help them obtain verification of that status.

To help implement this policy, we've prepared a sample form letter to determine the independent student status of unaccompanied homeless youth for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (Microsoft Word). This form letter may be edited as appropriate for your school district, institution of higher education, shelter, transitional living program, or street outreach program.

Per federal guidance from the U.S. Department of Education, " if a student indicates that they are an unaccompanied homeless youth-or unaccompanied and self-supporting youth at-risk of homelessness-and the student is unable to provide documentation from at least one of the entities listed above, FAAs must review the student's circumstances and make the determination themselves.

Financial aid administrators have the responsibility to make determinations of unaccompanied homeless youth if youth are unable to get determinations from other entities. This template can be used by financial aid administrators to make unaccompanied homeless youth determinations.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Sample Form Letters to Determine the Independent Student Status of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Another ESSA amendment to the McKinney-Vento Act requires school district liaisons to inform unaccompanied homeless youth of their status as independent students for financial aid (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA) and help them obtain verification of that status.

# data[].attributes.body
The Countywide Benefits Entitlements Services Team is a Department of Health Services (DHS) program, comprised of eight (8) community based organizations with dedicated benefits advocates that can assist individuals to apply for the following disability programs:

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)

Veteran’s Benefits (VA)

Who is eligible for services? Individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness who are:

Blind

Disabled

Elderly (65+)

Veterans

Please see attached flyer for SPA-specific contact information.

You may also call the WHOLE PERSON CARE - LA Referral Line: 844-804-5200 OR go to our website: https://dhs.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/dhs/wpc

# data[].attributes.body
Housing Services (young mothers ages 18+): THP@stannes.org

Housing Services (pregnant/parenting teen mothers): RTP@stannes.org  Also 24 Hour Residential Intake Coordinator (for teens ages 13-18 with open DCFS/Probation cases): (213) 381-2931 ext. 337 or on call mobile (213) 247-7441

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
SPONSOR OUR NEXT EVENT

Support St. Anne’s Family Services commitment to families in need.

FOUR STAR CHARITY

St. Anne’s has received Charity Navigator’s highest rating for 11 consecutive years.

Your gift will help change lives and have a ripple effect that multiplies across generations. Make a gift today.

In-person volunteering is currently on pause. Please connect with us to see how you can virtually volunteer for some of our programs. Learn more

Making a gift of stock is easy and can provide significant tax advantages for many donors. Learn more

Due to current health restrictions, we are currently accepting new items such as diapers, wipes, grocery gift cards and non-perishable food items.

OUR RECENT NEWS

Episode #2 MOMversations

June 19, 2020 BY StAnne's

Please visit our IGTV link found on our Instagram page @stannestoday and youR...

READ MORE

June 26, 2021

October 25, 2020

March 18, 2020 Los Angeles, CA

# data[].attributes.body
PADLET contains general resources for youth involved in the foster care system.

# data[].attributes.headline
2022 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count Data- LAHSA

# data[].attributes.subject
2022 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count Data- LAHSA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
2022 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count Data

# data[].attributes.body
Developed with the input of homeless youth and adults around LA County, the Free, Easy to Use WIN What I Need mobile app is available 24/7 and connects anyone who is searching for free or low-cost services to thousands of available helpful programs.

Available in English and Spanish, WIN™ is downloadable from the app stores (Search for WIN What I Need) and available for use on OCLA’s website!

Website: https://oclawin.org/

# data[].attributes.body
Search and connect to support. Financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help starts here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more.
Help starts here.

34,622,305 people use it (and growing daily)

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, chat with them online via their website, or text HOME to 741741 (multiple languages available). If this is an emergency, call 911.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
findhelp.org by findhelp - Search and Connect to Social Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Search and connect to support. Find financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help in your area, anywhere in the US.

# data[].attributes.headline
American Red Cross- Emergency Disaster Response Services

# data[].attributes.subject
American Red Cross- Emergency Disaster Response Services

# data[].attributes.body
Providing Around-the-Clock Assistance to Disaster Victims

The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist individuals and families displaced by natural and man-made disasters, including home fires (the majority of responses), wildfires, earthquakes, floods, hazardous materials spills, transportation accidents and other emergencies.

If You Need Immediate Disaster Assistance call (800) 675-5799

Steps to connect with the Red Cross:

Instruct the family to call the hotline, a responder will follow up to provide temporary assistance, often in the form of hotel stays, housing/shelter, food, blankets, toiletries, and other resources. The team is available 24/7 and they have Spanish-speaking staff. A school staff member may want to support with facilitating this call.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region provides 24-hour emergency assistance to people affected by wildfires, home fires, floods & other disasters.

# data[].attributes.headline
California State University (CSU) Student Services 

# data[].attributes.subject
California State University (CSU) Student Services 

# data[].attributes.body
​​The Chancellor's Office and the 23 campuses of the California State University offer a wide variety of resources to meet the diverse needs of the system's more than 484,000 students​.

Here you will find some of the popular resources and services available.​

# data[].attributes.headline
California Community Colleges Student Services

# data[].attributes.subject
California Community Colleges Student Services

# data[].attributes.body
Student Services run the gamut, from addressing the challenges faced by current and former foster youth, to helping students facing social and economic barriers, to offering a bevy of financial aid programs that can help cover college costs, to serving former military members who have proudly served us.

Emergency Financial Assistance for California Community College Students - PDF

Explore the following services and programs designed to help you reach your full potential.

The California Promise

California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKS)

Disabled Student Services and Programs (DSPS)

Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS)

Foster and Kinship Care Education

Foster Youth Success Initiatives

Health and Mental Health Services

Student Equity

Student Financial Assistance Programs

Student Senate for California Community Colleges

Veterans Services

# data[].attributes.headline
Supporting Schools & Newcomers 22-23 (Created by Angie Martinez-Reyna)

# data[].attributes.subject
Supporting Schools & Newcomers 22-23 (Created by Angie Martinez-Reyna)

# data[].attributes.body
PADLET contains general resources for newcomers.

# data[].attributes.headline
Public Assistance Benefits for Asylees in California 

# data[].attributes.subject
Public Assistance Benefits for Asylees in California 

# data[].attributes.body
Asylees are eligible for public assistance benefits and social services starting on the date their asylum application is approved. Proposed public charge changes do NOT impact Asylees.

# data[].attributes.headline
LAHSA's Immigration Legal Services Referral List

# data[].attributes.subject
LAHSA's Immigration Legal Services Referral List

# data[].attributes.headline
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles- Immigration Referral List

# data[].attributes.subject
Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles- Immigration Referral List

# data[].attributes.body
The Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles is informed that the following non-profit organizations provide legal assistance in the area of immigration law.

The Foundation, in providing you this referral list, is not in any way making any representation as to the quality of the work of any non-profit organization or attorney and/or legal worker affiliated with the listed organization.

# data[].attributes.headline
JBAY: Foster Youth Student Success Completion Grant FAQ

# data[].attributes.subject
JBAY: Foster Youth Student Success Completion Grant FAQ

# data[].attributes.body
https://jbay.org/

# data[].attributes.headline
LAHSA Resource for Serving Undocumented and Immigrant Clients (English)

# data[].attributes.subject
LAHSA Resource for Serving Undocumented and Immigrant Clients (English)

# data[].attributes.body
The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has created a non-exhaustive list of resources that are available to certain immigrant populations, including those who are undocumented. This Immigrant Homeless Services Guide for Service Providers includes links and eligibility information on resources such as LAHSA's Prevention Programs, CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants. This document is also available in Spanish (see below).

# data[].attributes.headline
LAHSA Resource for Serving Undocumented and Immigrant Clients (Spanish)

# data[].attributes.subject
LAHSA Resource for Serving Undocumented and Immigrant Clients (Spanish)

# data[].attributes.body
Spanish Version

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
7335 - Immigrant Homeless Services Guide For Service Providers_Spanish