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Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH)

Living Between Housing
Do you live in the streets, in a car, van, tent or other place that is not a permanent structure?  Do you live in a shelter, motel or other transitional housing program?  Are you staying with friends or family because you have no permanent housing?  Are you a youth who is not living with your parents or legal guardians?

Admitting that you or your children lack permanent housing can be uncomfortable. However, privately sharing this information with the school can ensure educational stability and access to support and resources. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is the federal law that deals with the challenges encountered by children and youth experiencing homelessness helping to ensure enrollment, attendance, support and ultimately, success in school.

Your Rights under McKinney-Vento

  • To go to school right away
  • To stay in the same school or go to the district where you are temporarily staying
  • To register for school regardless of having proof of residency, academic records or health records

School Supports

  • Transportation to and from school
  • Help obtaining school supplies
  • Immediate enrollment for free/reduced lunch program
  • Requesting required academic and health records from previous school

Getting Help

Map showing 5 PA counties in region 8.

PA Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program: Region 8 serves Bucks, Delaware, Lehigh, and Northampton counties and is administered by the Bucks County Intermediate Unit.

Every school district has a Homeless Liaison who is responsible for explaining your rights and guiding you and your family through the process. This includes providing resources and support during this time.  To find your school Homeless Liaison, contact the registration office at your school or search the Homeless Liaison Directory.

The Bucks County Resource Directory (formerly known as the 'Pink Pages') also provides some local assistance and support services information for children, youth, families, veterans, and others.