Families and Youth Experiencing Homelessness
The Vernon Family School and Community Partnership Center assists families throughout Vernon 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 transportation, school supplies, weekend backpack program and connections to community supports.
If you are experiencing displacement, or you need help, please contact Cynthia Zingler, Director of Family School and Community Partnerships and McKinney-Vento Liaison at 860-870-4688 or email czingler@vernon-ct.gov
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 In accordance with the McKinney-Vento Act “homeless children and youth means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence” and includes those:
• living with a friend, relative or somewhere else because they lost their home and whose family can’t access permanent housing due to financial constraints;
• who are staying in a motel or hotel due to a lack of adequate alternative accommodations;
• who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations or similar settings; or
• living in an emergency or transitional shelter or domestic violence shelter.