Homeless Info
McKinney-Vento Children - Who are they?
McKinney-Vento eligible children are those who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime abode. In general, children or youth living in motels, transitional housing, shelters, the street, cars, abandoned buildings, and other inadequate accommodations may be considered eligible for McKinney-Vento services. This includes, but is not limited to, the following groups:
| Doubled-up Children | living with another family due to lack of a permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Children in Shelters | including transitional living programs |
| Children Living in Motels | due to lack of alternative adequate living situation |
| Migratory Children | if accommodations are not fit for habitation |
| Runaways | children who have left home and live in a shelter or inadequate accommodations, even if parents are willing to provide a home |
| Lockouts | children whose parents or guardians will not permit them to live at home |
McKinney-Vento Children - What are their rights?
The Education for Homeless Children and Youth program, as part of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures eligible children have the right to:
| Choice of School | McKinney-Vento eligible children may attend their school of origin (school last attended or school attended when child lost permanent housing) or attend the school that serves their temporary living situation. The Caregiver makes the choice. |
|---|---|
| Immediate Enrollment | even if medical or other records, birth certificates, transcripts, cannot be produced at time of enrollment |
| Transportation | if requested, transportation must be provided |
| Preschool | priority consideration to preschool programs for eligible youngsters |
| Free Lunch & Fee Waivers | categorically eligible for free lunch and free tuition |
| Access to remote learning | including meals, devices and WIFI access |
| Supplemental tutoring | if needed |
If you think you might qualify for McKinney-Vento services please contact your school, McKinney-Vento Liaison, Matt Peterson, at 815-458-2145 x3142, or [email protected]
The Local Area 1 lead liaison at Will County Regional Office of Education is Karole Brandolino. She can be contacted at [email protected].
Housing Assistant Programs
- Emergency Housing Assistance - For families in need of emergency shelter call Morning Star Mission: 815-722-5780
- Catholic Charities - Daybreak Center