Resources for Families in Unstable Housing

Families experiencing unstable housing have rights under the McKinney-Vento Act to ensure their children continue uninterrupted access to education and services.

There are nearly 5,880 students identified in unstable housing across the state. See below for student rights, and where to go for direct support from a liaison.


Click here for more information on rights under the McKinney-Vento Act. Please find translations below.


Community Liaisons

Transportation to school

Students who qualify for assistance under the McKinney-Vento Act may be eligible for free bus transportation to and from school. Please work with the homeless concerns designee and liaison at your school to determine eligibility, and to secure a bus pass if applicable.


Parent brochure

Resources for parents and families under McKinney-Vento can be viewed in English here. Translations:

Eligibility questionnaire

The questionnaire to determine eligibility under the McKinney-Vento Act is available here. Translations:


For additional questions or concerns, please contact the Education for Homeless Children and Youth (EHCY) program at (808) 348-0304 or (808) 723-4192.


​Donations of goods for homeles​​s keiki

Hawaii's public schools serve an estimated 3,000 homeless​ students statewide. Thanks to donations of classroom supplies, we're usually able to provide students what's needed for classwork — backpacks, notebooks, pens, etc. We often have a need for footwear, shoes and slippers.

Click here for more information on how to fulfill a need.

Contact Information

Homeless Concerns Office

Phone: (808) 723-4192

Email: Toby.Portner@k12.hi.us

Ho‘oha‘aheo

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