Teaching Homeless Students or Others about Homelessness: Juvenile Literature Can Help

The number of homeless individuals in the United States is increasing. It has been estimated that at least 2.3 million people are likely to be homeless in any given year (The Urban Institute, 2000). Homelessness impacts not only single individuals, but families with children as well. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education estimates that over 800,000 children and youth in the U.S. are currently homeless (U. S. Department of Education, n.d.). Nationally approximately 40% of those who are homeless are families. Single men comprise 41% of the homeless population, while 14% are single women and 5% are unaccompanied youth (U.S. Conference of Mayors, 2004).

Given the increased numbers of homeless children and youth, the U.S. Congress created the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (reauthorized in 2001). Under this Act, states are eligible for grant monies to support programs for homeless students. In order to qualify for the funds, states must guarantee that homeless students are: Enrolled in school immediately, even if they do not have the records normally required by non-homeless students. Allowed to stay in their school of origin, if at all possible, unless doing so is contrary to the wishes of the parents or guardians.