HOMESTART
HomeStart is a federally-funded program for families and children in the Flagstaff Unified School District who are "in transition" or are experiencing housing difficulties. The Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act serves disadvantaged children and youth by providing educational and support services beyond that offered in the regular classroom setting.
Those who qualify for these services cover a wide range of living situations, from those who are in temporary housing such as shelters, campgrounds or motels to those who live in long-term, but inadequate situations. This includes multiple families living in crowded single-family dwellings, families who live in substandard housing without access to running water or adequate heating, and children living with non-custodial relatives or friends. Learn more about our policy on enrolling homeless students.
Since FUSD began its HomeStart program in the Fall of 1993, the schools have identified as many as 900 students and preschoolers who qualify for homeless services annually! We're pleased that those numbers have steadily decreased
to below 500.
The FUSD federal grant is one of only a handful currently funded in Arizona and, depending on individual need and home school, provides a variety of services including:
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referral to community agencies for issues related to housing, food
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health services, immunizations, counseling, etc.
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clothing and toiletry items
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school backpacks and supplies
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academic support
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meals or food allowances
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parent workshops or support groups
. .
For further information, contact:
Family Resource Center
(928) 774-1103
Sylvia A. Johnson
Director of Educational Enrichment
(928) 527-6152 |
