Families in Transition (FIT)

Student Services Department

 McKinney-Vento Definition of Homeless

The term “homeless children and youths” means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, and includes children and youth who have suffered a loss of housing and are: 

  • Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or loss of income

  • Living in motels or hotels due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations

  • Living in cars, parks, temporary trailer parks or campgrounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, or similar environments.

  • Living in emergency or transitional shelters

  • Sleeping in a place not designed for/ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings

  • Not sleeping at a consistent location

  • On their own; not in the custody of their parent or guardian

The McKinney-Vento Act assists homeless children and youth with enrolling, attending, and succeeding in school. Under McKinney-Vento, homeless children and youth are guaranteed the same educational services provided to all students to help them meet challenging academic standards. The Act also ensures homeless children and youth are educated in their neighborhood school or in their current attendance area.

For questions regarding available FIT services, please contact:

Grant Manager at (352) 742-6964, or

Clerical Support at (352) 742-6967, or

Advocate at (352) 536-4654 – Habla Español

The District employs one liaison/grant manager, one support staff, and one advocate to assist families with questions and concerns about services we can provide. These employees can assist homeless children and youth with the following: 

  • School Registration

  • School Transportation

  • Clothing (including school/P.E. uniforms)

  • Food

  • Hygienic supplies

  • School supplies

  • Paying school fees

  • Referrals to agencies and services (community, government, and faith-based organizations)

The district has created a questionnaire is to identify students and families who may be eligible for services in the school or local community. Eligible students may be able to receive services through the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act 42 U.S.C. 11435. For further assistance contact The Families in Transition (F.I.T) office at (352) 742-6964 OR (352) 742-6967.

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Community partners play a crucial role in combating homelessness by providing essential support, resources, and expertise. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness. By collaborating with community partners, we can amplify our efforts, reach more individuals in need, and create sustainable solutions. Join us in building a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has a place to call home.

Community Resource Guide

United Way in Lake and Sumter Counties