McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

In 1987, Congress passed the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act, (subsequently renamed the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act) to aid homeless persons. The Act defines the term “homeless children and youths” as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. On December 10, 2015, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was enacted, amending McKinney-Vento.

What is the definition of a “homeless youth” under McKinney-Vento?

“Homeless” is defined as “anyone lacking a fixed, adequate, regular nighttime residence.”What situations fit this definition?

• Staying in the home of other people due to unavailable housing, financial hardship, or similar circumstances
• Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks (in some instances – examples: leaking roof, no heat, etc.), public places, or campgrounds due to unavailable suitable housing options
• Living in an emergency shelter or transitional housing
• Unaccompanied (not living in direct care of legal parent or guardian) or runaway youth
• Refugee and migrant youth

How does McKinney-Vento help these students?
The law makes sure that these students receive a free and suitable public education by removing barriers to school enrollment and full, basic, daily participation in school activities. This includes:

• Free and Reduced School Lunch
• Help from school with any necessary enrollment documents
• Help from school setting up transportation service (if the student qualifies)
• Help from school with getting basic uniform clothing
• Help from school with basic school supplies
• Help from school with any basic clothing needs
• Help from school with basic high school graduation needs and expenses

The Philadelphia Academy Charter School Homeless Liaison, Jeneen Vendetti, will collaborate with child welfare and local education agencies to work together to promote school stability and continuity including trying to ensure children remain in the school in which they were enrolled at the time of placement when it is in their best interest. Decisions will be made collaboratively between school personnel, child welfare agencies and any other individual involved in the child’s case including the child,resource parent, and child advocate.

Please read over the Grade School and High School handbooks below further detailing the eligibility requirements and support any homeless or displaced student can receive

• High School Homeless/Displaced Handbook

• Grade School Homeless/Displaced Handbook

Websites available for families experiencing homelessness or displacement:

• Click here for a link to the Basic Education Circular on the PDE website.

• Need assistance with health insurance for your child? Apply for CHIP here.

• Pennsylvania’s Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness – Dispute Process

• City of Phila Office of Homeless Services

• Guide To College for Students Experiencing Homelessness

• McKinney-Vento Information Poster

Resources available: