Common Signs of Homelessness

Poor Hygiene

• Wearing the same clothes for several days and/or;
• Lack of shower facility or washers to stay clean.

Not Prepared for Class

• Lack of basic school supplies;
• Concern for the safety of belongings; and/or,
• Incomplete and/or missing homework.

Social and Behavioral Cues

• Change in behavior;
• "Old" beyond years;
• Protective of parents;
• Poor/short attention span;
• Poor self-esteem;
• Difficulty or avoidance of making friends;
• Difficulty trusting people;
• Need for immediate gratification;
• Anger; and/or,
• Aggression.

Lack of Continuity in Education

• Attendance at many different schools;
• Lack of records needed for enrollment; and/or,
• Learning difficulties.

Poor Health/Nutrition

• Lack of immunizations and/or immunization records;
• Unmet medical and dental needs;
• Chronic hunger (may hoard food);
• Fatigue (may fall asleep in class); and/or,
• Chronic health problems.

Transportation and Attendance Problems

• Erratic attendance or tardiness;
• Inability to contact parents;
• Numerous absences;
• Avoidance of class field trips; and/or
• Charging schools many times during the school year.

Reactions/Statements by Parent, Guardian, or Child(ren)

• Anger or embarrassment when asked about current address; and/or,
• Mention of staying with grandparents, other relatives, or living in a motel.

Comments such as:

• "I don't remember the name of my previous school";
•  "We've been moving around a lot";
• "Our address is new; I can't remember it" (may hide lack of a permanent address)"; and/or,
• "We're going through hard times right now".