WELCOME AND OVERVIEW 

We are so glad you’re here. Our mission is to support students and families experiencing housing instability by providing resources, information, and compassionate assistance. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or community member, this space is for you.

What is the McKinney-Vento Act?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures students experiencing homelessness have equal access to a free, appropriate public education.

Residency Form

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1stS7Ybqj7EKeThMPc4eUItEdT23AV1i6/view 

Who is considered homeless under this law?

A student is considered homeless if they lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. This includes:

• Living in shelters or transitional housing

• Staying in motels or hotels due to loss of housing or financial hardship

• Doubling up with friends or relatives

• Living in cars, parks, campgrounds, or other temporary settings

What rights and services does the Act provide?

Under McKinney-Vento, eligible students have the right to:

• Enroll immediately in school, even without documents like proof of residency, immunization, or school records

• Stay in their school of origin (the school they were attending before becoming homeless), if it is in their best interest

• Receive transportation to and from the school of origin

• Access educational services like tutoring, school meals, and counseling

Why is this important?

Education is a vital part of stability and success for all children. The McKinney-Vento Act helps remove barriers so every student, regardless of their housing situation, has a chance to learn, grow, and succeed.

STATE GUIDANCE 

Under the act, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) must ensure that each homeless child and youth has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education, including a public preschool education, as other children and youths.

Resources through ADE:DESE

• Homeless Education Services

ADDITIONAL SUPPORTIVE RESOURCES 

Bradley County- Arkansas Department of Human Services 

902 Halligan, Warren, AR 71671

Southeast Arkansas Community Action 

1208 Myrtle St, Warren, AR 71671

Arkansas Foodbank Network 

The above lists of resources and partnerships are updated as information becomes available.  

COMMUNITY RESOURCES 

Hermitage Baptist Church 

 405 E Grand Ave, Hermitage, AR 71647

-Food Pantry 

-Clothing Closet 

Hermitage Branch Library 

122 S Main Street, Hermitage, AR 71647

-Computer/Internet Access

Community Food Box 

Location: Outside the Hermitage Branch Library 

The City of Hermitage

186 US-63, Hermitage, AR 71647