Homeless Families
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence have equal access to public education. The law provides protections and support to help students enroll without delay, remain in school, and receive the services they need during times of housing instability.
Resources are available to support students and families experiencing homelessness.
You can learn more about the McKinney-Vento Homeless Children and Youth Program by visiting the Indiana Department of Education’s website.
VCSC District Liaison
Bryce Crane
812-882-2215
craneb@vcsc.k12.in.us
Families can also connect with their school's social worker.
State MV Coordinator
Charie Jones, IDOE Homeless Education State Coordinator
317-232-0957
mckinneyventopoc@doe.in.gov
Homeless Students Rights
Students and families experiencing homelessness are protected under the federal McKinney-Vento Act. This law ensures students can enroll in school right away, even if typical documents such as proof of residency are not available. It also provides access to certain services and supports, including eligibility for resources such as free textbooks.
To learn more about the full list of rights available to students and families under the McKinney-Vento Act, please visit the Indiana Department of Education’s website.
State Resources
Exodus - Refugee and immigration Assistance
HVAF - Assistance for veterans and families
HSI - Indiana Homeless Prevention Program - Housing assistance
Indiana 211 - Food, shelter and housing, and health care resources throughout the state of Indiana
Indiana BMV- State ID and driver's license
Indiana Department of Health - Birth certificates and vital records
Indiana Department of Housing & Urban Development - Housing support
Indiana Department of Workforce Development - High school equivalency exam and job assistance
Indiana Family & Social Services Administration - SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid
Indiana Head Start & Early Head Start - School readiness program
IHCDA - Housing First Program, Homeless Youth Program, and the Indiana Balance of State Continuum of Care.
Indiana Housing Now - Housing resources