Iowa school children who are currently experiencing homelessness have been granted a much-needed boost in the form of $424,000 in federal funding.
But here’s the kicker: it will be implemented in a whopping 25 school districts.
“I’m sure it would surprise you,” admits Jen Durham, who faced homelessness with her young children after escaping from domestic abuse ten years ago.
Homelessness is a widespread issue, and she knows this from personal experience.
“I don’t think homelessness is something that is openly discussed at school,” she remarks. “It’s not like we go around asking each other who’s homeless and who’s not. You wouldn’t have guessed that my family and I were going through it.”
Schools are often the primary and most effective point of contact between families and the education system.
According to Andrew Allen, CEO of Youth Shelter and Services in Des Moines, school can serve as a sanctuary for homeless youth. It provides them with nourishment, encouragement, and support, allowing them to feel valued and uplifted. Allen expresses gratitude towards the state for allocating funds to address the needs of homeless youth and ensuring their recognition and access to necessary resources.
Recognition is the key factor that Allen believes will benefit the most from this funding.
He says that any funding that is specifically raising awareness about this issue is important.
The funds will be allocated for essential needs such as food, clothing, and supplies, as well as for providing transportation for homeless students to and from school. This is a crucial step in supporting children in rural areas.
According to Allen, there are instances where homeless youth are forced to leave their community or county, resulting in them being far away from their original school district.
Durham adds that even if they are transported by buses, the buses struggle to keep up with the demand. He humorously wonders, “Where’s Johnny this week?”
Half a million dollars was distributed among 10,000 children, all of whom had nothing.
Durham expresses excitement about any progress being made with it.
The districts of Des Moines, Ames, Creston, and Newton were among the recipients of the generous $10,000 grants. These grants were specifically allocated for the provision of essential items such as food, clothing, and personal hygiene supplies. Additionally, the Nodaway Valley district was one of the fortunate eight districts that received the maximum transportation award of $30,000.
