McKinney-Vento Program
(Families In Transition Program)

Bladen County Schools wants to meet the needs of any family that may be in a housing transition situation, and/or experiencing homelessness.  If a family qualifies for the McKinney-Vento Program, we can potentially assist with various resources.  These resources can include assistance with immediate enrollment at a school, uniforms, school supplies, transportation to school, and referrals to county resources. 

Eligibility

The McKinney-Vento Act (42 U.S.C. § 11431 et seq.) is a federal law that addresses the needs of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The law defines "in transition" as residing at a temporary location because of a loss of housing due to economic hardship, or a similar reason. Temporary living situations can include:

• Living with a friend, relative or other person due to loss of housing

• Hotel or motel

• Shelter or transitional housing

• Car, park or other public place

• Campground or inadequate home

• Youth living on their own, runaway youth or youth kicked out

The McKinney-Vento Act addresses educational challenges created by being in transition and guarantees students the right to enroll, attend, and succeed in school. 

Unaccompanied Homeless Youth Rights

McKinney-Vento legislation defines unaccompanied youth as a youth in a homeless situation who is not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian.  Unaccompanied homeless youth include young people:

• who have run away from home

• been thrown out of the home, and/or

• been abandoned by parents or guardians.

Student Data