Homeless Services & McKinney-Vento Information

If your family is experiencing housing instability, you are not alone. Delaware Valley Regional High School is committed to supporting all students in a safe, stable, and welcoming environment. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures educational rights and protections for students in temporary or unstable housing situations.

What is McKinney-Vento?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that guarantees educational rights and support services for children and youth experiencing homelessness.

A student may qualify under McKinney-Vento if they are living in:

A shelter or transitional housing
A motel, hotel, or campground
A car, park, or public place
Shared housing due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar circumstances
Any other temporary or inadequate living arrangement

McKinney-Vento Act: Quick Reference

Un Resumen Del Acta McKinney-Vento

Rights of McKinney-Vento Students

Students who qualify are entitled to:

Immediate school enrollment (even without documents)
Continued enrollment in their school of origin, if in the student’s best interest
Transportation assistance to and from school
Access to school meals, programs, and extracurricular activities
Support for school supplies, clothing, and basic needs when available
Help connecting to community resources

McKinney-Vento District Contact

If you believe your family may qualify for McKinney-Vento services, please reach out to the McKinney-Vento liaison or your child's counselor. Assistance is confidential, and families do not need to provide proof of homelessness before receiving help determining eligibility. School staff are available to answer questions, explain your rights, and connect you with school and community resources.

Kristina Sterbenc
McKinney-Vento Liaison
Delaware Valley Regional High School
Phone: 908/996-2131 ext 6601
Email: kristinasterbenc@dvrhs.k12.nj.us

New Jersey & Local Resources

If your family needs assistance beyond the school district, the following organizations may be able to help.

New Jersey Department of Education – McKinney-Vento Program

The New Jersey Department of Education provides information about eligibility, student rights, district liaisons, and educational supports for students experiencing homelessness.

Resource: NJDOE McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program

McKinney-Vento Eligibility Information

Not sure if your family qualifies? Review the state's eligibility guidance, which explains the types of living situations covered under the law.

Resource: Eligibility Definition and Frequently Asked Questions

Regional McKinney-Vento Support (Hunterdon & Warren Counties)

Delaware Valley Regional High School is served through Region 1, which provides technical assistance and support to school districts in Hunterdon and Warren Counties.

Resource: Regional McKinney-Vento Grantees and Contacts

NJ 2-1-1

NJ 2-1-1 is a free, confidential resource that connects families with:

Emergency housing and shelters
Food assistance
Utility assistance
Mental health services
Healthcare
Childcare
Transportation and other community resources

Resource: NJ 2-1-1 Community Resources

Call 2-1-1 or 877-652-1148 anytime.

Hunterdon County Department of Human Services

Provides assistance with housing resources, food programs, emergency assistance, behavioral health, and other support services for Hunterdon County residents.

Resource: Hunterdon County Department of Human Services

Warren County Department of Human Services

Offers information and referrals for housing assistance, emergency services, mental health resources, and financial assistance programs.

Resource: Warren County Department of Human Services

New Jersey Department of Community Affairs

The Department of Community Affairs offers information about: