Decision-making Tool to Determine a Family’s Homelessness Situation
Use this tool to determine a child and family's situation or status using the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act’s definition of “homeless children and youth.”
Family Support and Well-being
Family well-being occurs when all family members are safe, healthy, and have chances for educational advancement and economic mobility. Support services such as early care and education, housing and food assistance, and physical and mental health care positively contribute to the well-being of families and their children. When families face challenges that cause stress, including poverty and homelessness, their health and wellness can be negatively impacted. Engaging families as active participants in problem-solving and goal-setting can help them identify and use their own strengths to address the challenges they face. When families are healthy, safe, and economically stable, their children's health and well-being can thrive.
Connecting with Partners Planning Worksheet
Working with local partners is a key strategy for identifying and reaching out to families experiencing homelessness.
Partnering with Families to Access Utilities Assistance During Emergencies
Families may have trouble paying for utilities and other services during emergencies. Explore this tip sheet to help families access financial assistance with their energy, water, cell phone, and internet service bills.
Partnering with Families to Open a Bank or Credit Union Account
Find out how to partner with families to explore bank and credit union accounts, find accounts with low or no fees, and take steps to open an account.
Partnering with Families to Manage Credit and Debt
Use this tip sheet to help families manage their credit and debt, both during emergencies and for the future.
Partnering with Families to Access Unemployment Benefits
Families may experience job instability during a crisis. Use this tip sheet to partner with families to determine their eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits, apply for benefits, and look for new work.
Partnering with Families to Pursue Education and Training Goals
Families' education and training goals may change during emergencies. Learn how to partner with families to identify their immediate and long-term goals and access key resources.
Partnering with Families to Access Food Assistance
Find out how to partner with families to access different types of food assistance. Learn ways to help them determine their eligibility and navigate the application process.
Partnering with Families to Pursue Employment and Career Goals
Families' employment and career goals may change during emergencies. Learn how to partner with families to identify their immediate and long-term goals and access key resources.
How Head Start Can Help You Access Utilities Assistance
Families may have trouble paying for utilities such as water, electricity, cell, and internet in times of need. Learn how program staff can help connect families with programs that can help them pay their bills.