SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Karina Villa advanced a measure through the Senate that would expand access to emergency housing assistance for students and their families, providing crucial stability for children experiencing homelessness.
“Addressing housing instability is essential to keep students in school and prevent families from falling into a cycle of economic and emotional hardship,” said Villa (D- West Chicago). “By giving school districts the ability to step in during times of crisis, we can help children stay in their schools and communities, where they belong.”
House Bill 4137 would allow school districts to provide an extended motel stay for students that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, providing families with critical support while they secure or maintain permanent housing.
Currently, school districts may provide families with rental or mortgage assistance and financial assistance for unpaid bills, loans or financial debts that result in a child and their family’s housing being inadequate.
“It is vital that no child’s education is disrupted due to homelessness,” said Villa. “We must remove every barrier to learning and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
House Bill 4137 passed the Senate on Tuesday.
