WASHINGTON D.C. (WKZO) — The United States now has more homeless kids attending public schools than at any other time in history, according to a report released by the U.S. Department of Education.
The federal agency estimates the number at 1.1 million, which they acknowledge is a conservative guess.
Tobey Hannah-Davies, who is with Kalamazoo’s Interfaith Stratege for Advocacy and Action branch, said that puts Kalamazoo County, and its decision to ask voters for a one-tenth mill to help homeless families, on the cutting edge of the emerging national issue.
“We are way ahead of the rest of the rest of county in responding to this nationwide issue, and our program may become a national model,” Hannah-Davies said.
She said, so far, the “Vote for Kids” initiative has picked up a lot of support in the community and endorsements from a number of area agencies and school districts.
“The research shows that a stable place to call home increases children’s school success, their emotional development and their physical health,” Hannah-Davies said.
Davies says, because the recession was largely due to a housing crisis, it has left more people homeless despite the improving economy.
Many groups are now calling on Congress to act to address the issue nationally.
– John McNeill
