The term homeless children and youth is defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.  This includes individuals sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason.

Examples of homelessness include:

• Living in a motel, hotel, trailer park or campground due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations;
• Living in emergency or transitional shelters;
• Living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, bus or train stations or similar settings;
• Living in substandard housing (no running water or working utilities, infestations, etc.)

Children who are experiencing homelessness may qualify for assistance with free school lunch, school supplies/materials, tutoring and transportation so that they can remain in their school of origin throughout the duration of their homeless episode. 

If you believe your child(ren) may qualify for this service, please contact Mrs. Tara Achtziger, Assistant Principal, Homeless Liaison at 724-804-7061.

If your living situation changes during the school year, and you and your child(ren) become homeless, please be sure to contact the school.  We will work with you so that your child(ren)’s education is disrupted as little as possible. 

Community Resources for Families with Young Children

Westmoreland Community Action Head Start/Early Head Start program:   Our mission is to strengthen communities and families to eliminate poverty in Westmoreland County. This is accomplished through housing, counseling, support, education, intervention, collaborations, partnerships, information, referrals, and networking. 

Contact:  Joyce Prentice, EHS ERSEA Coordinator, WCA Early Head Start

Jprentice@westmorelandCA.org

(724)834-1260 Ext. 4168

Western Pennsylvania Diaper Bank:  Ensures babies in need are clean, healthy, and dry to help create a community where every family is equal and has the same opportunity to thrive.

Contact:  724-691-3031  Mt. Pleasant