State-administeredESSA
McKinney-Vento (EHCY)
Education for Homeless Children and Youths
Ensures children and youth experiencing homelessness can enroll in, attend and succeed in school. Authorized under the McKinney-Vento Act, as amended by ESSA (often listed with Title IX, Part A).
Official source checked Oct 15, 2026
How to access it: Teachers access support through the district's homeless liaison, not by applying.
- Federal agency
- U.S. Department of Education, Office of Elementary and Secondary Education
- State / local administration
- State coordinators award competitive subgrants to districts.
- Intended beneficiaries
- Children and youth experiencing homelessness.
- Eligible applicants
- School districts, through state subgrant competitions. Every district must have a homeless liaison regardless of subgrant.
- Funding mechanism
- State-administered — Federal money passed to state agencies, which run their own subgrant competitions or allocations.
- Automatic or competitive
- Formula grants to states; states award competitive subgrants to districts.
- Application process
- Contact your district's homeless liaison or your state coordinator.
- Current status
- Ongoing; state subgrants on state timelines
- Funding year
- Federal fiscal year 2026 funds, used mainly in school year 2026–27. Allocation amounts are set each year — confirm yours with your state agency or district.
What this funding could pay for
Potential uses only. Whether a cost is allowable depends on current federal rules, your state's requirements and your district's plan. Confirm with your district or state before spending.
Tutoring and Intervention
Tutoring and supplemental instruction for students experiencing homelessness.
Student Mental Health and Wellbeing
Referrals and support services.
Family and Community Engagement
Outreach to families experiencing homelessness.