The Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness program (ECYEH) is an initiative of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and is based on the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This federal legislation ensures that homeless children and youth have access to a free, appropriate, public education.
Our team is committed to ensuring that all students experiencing homelessness have the opportunity to succeed in school. We eliminate barriers to education, educate the community about the nature of homelessness, and provide support to schools, families, and communities.
Homelessness is a real issue in Berks County. More than 2,000 students identify as homeless in our area. Mary’s Shelter’s STRONG Program is adding 20 bedrooms for unaccompanied homeless youth ages 16-22. We need your creative design skills!
The ECYEH program in Region 2 serves Berks, Chester, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and Schuylkill counties and is administered by the Berks County Intermediate Unit.
How the Region 2 ECYEH program can help:
Children and youth are eligible for services under the McKinney-Vento Act if they have been displaced from their homes and are living in a place that is not fixed, regular, or adequate, such as:
Children and youth experiencing homelessness have the right to:
We provide training on the following topics:
Homeless Awareness Workshops for Students:
>> Click here for a printable version of training opportunities.
School District Homeless Liaison Resources:
Helpful Links:
Forms and Documents:
Additional Community Resources in Region 2 and Early Childhood Resources
Follow ECYEH on Facebook for information, updates, and more!
Kristen Hoffa, Regional Coordinator – krihof@berksiu.org
Melissa DeMotta, Program Specialist – meldem@berksiu.org
Tabitha Kramer, Program Specialist – tabkra@berksiu.org
For assistance or more information, contact our regional office at 610-987-8509 or 800-510-2741.
