Featured H.A.A.G. Service Provider

HOMELESSNESS AWARENESS AND ADVOCACY GROUP, UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

Homelessness can happen to anyone!

FEATURED HOMELESS SERVICE PROVIDER:

APS TITLE I HOMELESS PROJECTS

During the school year the Title I Homeless Projects addresses the needs of approximately 900 homeless children between the ages of 5 and 18 years. The children come from families staying at Joy Junction, the Women's Community Association, Barrett House, St. Martins, various motels located throughout Albuquerque, automobiles, tents and boxes.

PROJECT HISTORY
In November 1995, an APS committee was formed to determine the number and educational needs of homeless children within the Albuquerque area. This committee conducted on-site needs assessments at community shelters, Health Care for the Homeless, selected elementary and secondary schools, Albuquerque Alliance to end Homelessness, and the APS Child Find and Transportation departments.
By April 1996, the following services were being offered:

evening tutors at shelters
educational assistance at heavily impacted school sites
homeless project liaisons to coordinate school and community efforts
summer program emphasizing academic and recreational activities
school supplies at registration

SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

At the same time, a Homeless Projects Task Force was established to strengthen the school and community partnership. The members include representatives from Health Care for the Homeless, school sites, community shelters, APS administrative and support staff, Children's Outreach, Cuidando Los Niños, UNM, and military representation. Currently, the Task Force is focusing on identifying needs and establishing goals in order to more effectively provide educational services to an increasing population.

STUDENTS NEED SUPPORT
The project has identified student self-esteem as a key factor in achieving success in school. Student confidence suffers and a lack of identity results from

unstable living conditions,
lack of school clothing and school supplies,
and constantly changing school environments.
These students need access to increased adult support within shelter and school environments because parents are often in crisis and unable to support the emotional and educational needs of the children. This environment leads to deficiencies in education for homeless children.
For more information about this project or to volunteer to help these students please contact either Helen Fox 256-4280 or Marie Sanchez 256-4249.

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All contents ©1998 UNM Homelessness Advocacy and Awareness Group. All rights reserved.
Design and layout by Leanne Yanabu, MFA willow@unm.edu
Last updated: October 3, 1999
http://www.unm.edu/~willow/homeless/feature.html