Hartford Public Schools is excited to announce that we are working with Thea Montanez, Senior Advisor to Governor Ned Lamont and Chair of the Governor’s Kids Cabinet, to join a new initiative aimed at better supporting public school students experiencing homelessness. During our first meeting, various state representatives reviewed data and current systems to identify areas needing improvement for a 100-day challenge.
Re!nstitute, an international nonprofit organization will lead the planning effort to enhance educational support and connect homeless students and families with housing and services. Notably, over 5,600 students in Connecticut faced homelessness during the 2023-24 school year, marking a 63% increase since 2021, with a significant portion being students of color and English language learners. We will also have support from our McKinney-Vento partners in overseeing the project's implementation.
The Families and Youth in Transition program at Hartford Public Schools Welcome Center assists families throughout Hartford Public Schools that are currently in a displaced situation. Families currently experiencing displacement can be in any of the following situations: living in a shelter, living in a double up (living with someone), or living in a motel. The program offers a variety of services for families including uniforms, transportation, school supplies, parent training, and community outreach. (Homeless Services)
If you have families you believe may be experiencing displacement, or you need help, please contact, 860-695-8504 or contact:
Leslie Carrillo, Homeless Coordinator, 860-695-8504 or 8554
Email Leslie Carrillo
The McKinney-Vento Act
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures immediate enrollment and educational stability for homeless children and youth. It defines homeless children as “individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. “Children and youth sharing housing due to loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason.
Children and youth living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camp grounds due to lack of alternative accommodations
Children and youth living in emergency or transitional shelters Children and youth awaiting foster care placement.
Migratory children and youth living in any of the above situations.
The McKinney-Vento Act requires schools to enroll homeless children and youth immediately, even if they lack normally required documents, such as immunization records or proof of residence. The act ensures that homeless children and youth have transportation to and from their school of origin if it is in the child’s or youth’s best interest.
CT Insider Re!Institute gets grant from Hartford Foundation to fight student homelessness