McKinney-Vento 2001, Law Into Practice Issue Brief

Who is Homeless?

This document outlines which children and youth are classified as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act.  This definition can help educators, families, and youth understand who is entitled to the McKinney-Vento Acts protections. 

Homelessness is a lack of permanent housing resulting from extreme poverty, or, in the case of unaccompanied youth, the lack of a safe and stable living environment.

As a result of the lack of shelter, most students in homeless situations share housing with friends or relatives, stay in motels or other temporary facilities, or live on the streets, in abandoned cars, and in woods and campgrounds.

Some children and youth may not immediately be recognized as homeless and are sometimes denied the protections and services of the McKinney-Vento Act.

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