McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act

Ingham ISD is committed to helping students in Ingham County who are experiencing homelessness by coordinating the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.

Families in Ingham County who are experiencing homelessness may seek assistance to receive support for transportation, basic supplies, housing assistance and other essential needs by working with the Ingham County Liaison: Rose Taphouse, Countywide Homeless Liaison, 517.755.2813.

Students may qualify for support provided by the McKinney-Vento grant if:

They are living in a shelter, car, park, abandoned building, campground, motel, bus/train station or are living “doubled-up” with other people due to loss of housing and economic hardship.

In Michigan, students in kindergarten-grade 12, as well as children enrolled in state or federal-funded preschool programs, have the right to:

  • Receive a free, appropriate public education
  • Enroll in school immediately, even if they do not have documents that are normally required
  • Enroll in the local school or continue at their school of origin (determined by the best interest of the student)
  • Receive transportation to and from school of origin, if needed  
  • Receive meals through federal breakfast and lunch programs
  • Receive educational services comparable to other children, according to their needs

Statewide/National Resources

  • The Michigan Department of Education provides resources and support to implement these protections statewide.
  • Call 211 or go to the 211 website for immediate assistance with housing, shelter, and other needs  
  • National Runaway Safeline or 1.800.RUNAWAY (1.800.786.2929)

Ingham County Resources

If you are looking for help as a student who is experiencing homelessness, need information to help a student experiencing homelessness or just want to learn more about homeless youth and families, visit Lansing - Ingham County McKinney-Vento Homeless Information.

Contact Us

Angie Jackson
Ingham ISD Programs Liaison

Rose Taphouse
Countywide Homeless Liaison
 517.755.2813