Early Childhood Homelessness 

State Profiles

Data Collected in 2017-2018

Early Childhood Homelessness 

State Profiles 

Data Collected in 2017-2018

Prepared for:

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development

Prepared by:

Amy Yamashiro

John McLaughlin

U.S. Department of Education

2020
The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the positions or policies of the Department of 

Education. No official endorsement by the U.S. Department of Education of any product, commodity, 

service, or enterprise mentioned in this publication is intended or should be inferred. For the reader’s 

convenience, this publication contains information about and from outside organizations, including 

hyperlinks and URLs. Inclusion of such information does not constitute an endorsement by the 

Department.

U.S. Department of Education

Betsy DeVos

Secretary

Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development

James Blew 

Assistant Secretary

February 2020

This report is in the public domain. Authorization to reproduce it in whole or in part is granted. While 

permission to reprint this publication is not necessary, the citation should be: Amy Yamashiro & John 

McLaughlin. (2020). U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy 

Development, Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles 2020: Data Collected in 2017-2018, 

Washington, DC, 2020. 

This report is available on the Department’s website at: 

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Content Contact:

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Email: amy.yamashiro@ed.gov
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

i 

Contents

List of Exhibits...................................................................................................................... iii

Introduction.......................................................................................................................... 1

Data Highlights............................................................................................................................... 3 

References...................................................................................................................................... 8

Profiles

National 9 

Alabama 10

Alaska 11

Arizona 12

Arkansas 13

California 14

Colorado 15

Connecticut 16

Delaware 17

District of Columbia 18

Florida 19

Georgia 20

Hawaii 21

Idaho 22

Illinois 23

Indiana 24

Iowa 25

Kansas 26

Kentucky 27

Louisiana 28

Maine 29

Maryland 30

Massachusetts 31

Michigan 32

Minnesota 33

Mississippi 34

Missouri 35

Montana 36

Nebraska 37

Nevada 38

New Hampshire 39

New Jersey 40
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

ii

New Mexico 41

New York 42

North Carolina 43

North Dakota 44

Ohio 45

Oklahoma 46

Oregon 47

Pennsylvania 48

Puerto Rico 49

Rhode Island 50

South Carolina 51

South Dakota 52

Tennessee 53

Texas 54

Utah 55

Vermont 56

Virginia 57

Washington 58

West Virginia 59

Wisconsin 60

Wyoming 61

Appendix I: Data Sources and Methodology......................................................................... 62

Data Sources................................................................................................................................62

Methodology................................................................................................................................63

Early Childhood Homelessness..................................................................................................63

Early Childhood Education for Children Experiencing Homelessness..................................65

Related Factors............................................................................................................................66

References....................................................................................................................................66

Appendix II: Federal Definitions of Homelessness................................................................ 67

McKinney-­ Vento Homeless Assistance Act Definition ............................................................6

HEARTH Act Definition................................................................................................................68

Appendix III: Federally Funded Early Childhood Programs.................................................... 70

Head Start.....................................................................................................................................70

Child Care and Development Fund...........................................................................................70

Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting............................................................71

McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Act........................................72
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

iii

List of Exhibits

Exhibit 1. Number and Percentage of Children Under Age Six Experiencing 

Homelessness in 2017–2018................................................................... 5 

Exhibit 2. Number and Percentage of Children Under Age Six Experiencing 

Homelessness and Served by Federally Funded Early Childhood 

Education Programs in 2017–2018 ......................................................... 6 

Exhibit 3. High Housing Cost Burden and No Resident Parent in U.S. Labor Force: 

Percentage of Children Under Age Six Affected by These Related Factors 

in 2017.................................................................................................... 7 
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

1 

Introduction 

In January 2016, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) released the first 50-state 

profile on Early Childhood Homelessness as part of an interagency collaboration with multiple 

departments and agencies participating on the early childhood workgroup of the U.S. 

Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH). These include ACF and the Office of the 

Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE) for the U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, the U.S. Department of Education (ED), the U.S. Department of Housing and 

Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The profile 

compiles data and information from multiple sources on young children who are experiencing 

homelessness. 

Homelessness is a reality for many families with young children in the United States. In 2018, 

about a third of all people who stayed in a shelter were families with children, and nearly half 

of children served by HUD -funded emergency and transitional housing providers were age five 

or younger (HUD, 2019). Furthermore, children under the age of one comprise less than six

percent of the overall child population in the United States, yet they constitute ten percent of 

the child population served by HUD- -funded shelters (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019; HUD, 2019).

Moreover, in 2017–2018,1 more than 1.4 million young children from birth through age five 

were reported as served by the early childhood and homeless education programs 

administered by ED and HHS.

Research has established a strong connection between a young child’s early experiences and 

brain development. The early years of life can provide a strong or weak foundation for all 

future learning, behavior, and health (National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 

2007). For example, “critical aspects of brain architecture begin to be shaped by experience 

before and soon after birth, and many fundamental aspects of that architecture are established 

well before a child enters school.” (p. 1).

Homelessness in early childhood is associated with poor academic achievement and 

engagement in elementary school (Perlman & Fantuzzo, 2010). Additionally, experiences of 

homelessness are associated with social emotional delays among young children (Haskett, et 

al., 2015) and poor classroom- -based social skills in elementary school (Brumley, Fantuzzo, 

Perlman, & Zager, 2015). These findings underscore the importance of ensuring that young 

children who experience homelessness have access to evidenced-based and promising 

educational experiences that are critical to improving the long- -term educational outcomes of

children. 

1 Data from U.S. Departments of Education and Health and Human Services are reported by school year (i.e., 

2016–2017). Data from the KIDS COUNT Data Center and the U.S. Census Bureau are reported for the 

calendar, rather than school, year.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

2 

This report updates ED’s annual Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles2 and provides a 

snapshot of early childhood data available for children who are experiencing homelessness in 

each state, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. It includes publicly available data for 

2017–2018 from the U.S. Census Bureau (Census), ED, HUD, HHS, and the Annie E. Casey 

Foundation and reports the following by state:

• Total population under age six in 2018

• Estimated number of children under age six experiencing homelessness in 2017–2018

• Estimated extent of homelessness (e.g., one-in-[X] children under age six 

experienced homelessness in 2017–2018)

• Estimated enrollment of children under age six in Federally funded early childhood

programs (i.e., Head Start3 and school districts receiving McKinney-Vento Homeless

Assistance Act (McKinney-Vento Act)4subgrants) in 2017–2018

As in previous profiles, the 2020 report includes two indicators referred to as related factors. 

These factors are the percentage of families experiencing a “high housing cost burden” (defined 

as spending 30 percent or more of monthly income on housing expenses), and the percentage 

of young children under age six with no parent in the labor force in the United States. These 

factors were included because of their relationship to homelessness and, in particular, to spark 

dialogue about addressing homelessness for children under age six. While these data on related 

factors are not available for the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the 

Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, this report does provide information about 

the number of children experiencing homelessness served by Head Start/Early Head Start in 

these areas.5

2 Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles 2018 compiled 2015–2016 school year data from multiple sources. 

https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/disadv/homeless/early-childhood-homelessness-state-profiles.pdf 3 Head Start, a comprehensive child development program with the overall goal of increasing the school readiness 

of young children from birth to age five in low---income families, is administered by HHS through the Office of 

Head Start at the Administration for Children and Families. Please note that this rate does yet not include 

children served by HHS’s Child Care and Development Fund, but that such data will be available in future years.

4 The Secretary of Education is authorized to make grants to states for the education of children and youth by Title 

VII-B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. 5 The Secretary is authorized to reserve .1% of the amount appropriated for each fiscal year to be allocated among 

the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, 

according to their respective need for assistance, as determined by the Secretary. (42 U.S.C. § 11432(c)(2)(A)). 

The Secretary transfers 1% of the amount appropriated for each fiscal year to the Department of the Interior for 

programs for Indian students served by schools funded by the Secretary of the Interior. (42 U.S.C. 

§ 11432(c)(2)(B)(i)).
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

3 

Data Highlights

National Level

• In 2017–2018, there were 1,455,5376, or one---in---16, children under six years old who

experienced homelessness. Six percent of children under age six were experiencing

homelessness.

• In 2018, about nine percent of children under age six experiencing homelessness

(127,2277

children) were enrolled in Head Start, Early Head Start, or programs funded

with McKinney---Vento subgrants. This rate does not include state and locally funded

early childhood programs.

• In 2017, 31 percent of families with children under 18 had a high housing cost burden

(defined as spending 30 percent or more of monthly income on housing expenses). 8

• In 2017, eight percent of children under age six had no resident parent in the labor 

force in the United States.

9

State Level

• More than 100,000 children under age six experienced homelessness in each of

California, New York, and Texas, and more than 35,000 young children experienced

homelessness in each of Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and Washington10 (See Exhibit 1.).

• In 10 states or jurisdictions (California, District of Columbia, Missouri, Nevada, New

York, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, and West Virginia), at least eight 

percent of children under age six experienced homelessness11 (See Exhibit 1.).

6

Source: U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without 

McKinney---Vento subgrants - - Total: 2017–2018. 

7 The estimate of 127,227 children may be slightly inflated due to a small number of children who receive services

from both Head Start/Early Head Start and the McKinney-Vento program. Sources: U.S. Department of 

Education. Homeless children and youth served by McKinney- -Vento subgrants- -- -Ages birth through 2: 2017–2018. 

U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without McKinney- -

Vento subgrants - - Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for 

Children and Families, Office of Head Start. (2018). Program information report: Total number of children 

experiencing homelessness that were served during the enrollment year. 

8 Source: The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2018). Children living in households with a 

high housing cost burden. 9 Source: The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2018). Children under age six with no resident 

parent in the labor force in the United States. 10 Source: U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without 

McKinney---Vento subgrants - - Total: 2017–2018. 11 Source: U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without 

McKinney---Vento subgrants - - Total: 2017–2018. 
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

4 

• More than 5,000 children under age six experiencing homelessness were served by

Head Start/Early Head Start and McKinney-Vento in each of California, Illinois, New

York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas12 (See Exhibit 2.).

• In five states or jurisdictions (Montana, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and

Vermont), more than 20 percent of children under age six experiencing homelessness

were served by Federally funded early childhood education programs13 (See Exhibit 

2.).

• Seven states or jurisdictions (California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida,

Hawaii, New Jersey, and New York) had one-third or more families with children 

under age 18 who experienced a high housing cost burden (See Exhibit 3.).14

• Eight states or jurisdictions (Alabama, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Mississippi,

Montana, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and West Virginia) had more than 10 percent of

children under age six whose resident parents were not in the civilian labor force (See

Exhibit 3.).15

The early childhood homelessness state profiles are intended to provide information for local, 

state, and Federal conversations and planning.

12 Sources: U.S. Department of Education. Homeless children and youth served by McKinney---Vento subgrants------

Ages birth through 2: 2017–2018. U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in 

LEAs with or without McKinney---Vento subgrants --- Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018. U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start. (2018). Program information 

report: Total number of children experiencing homelessness that were served during the enrollment year. 13 Sources: U.S. Department of Education. Homeless children and youth served by McKinney---Vento subgrants------

Ages birth through 2: 2017–2018. U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in 

LEAs with or without McKinney---Vento subgrants --- Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018. U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Head Start. (2018). Program information 

report: Total number of children experiencing homelessness that were served during the enrollment year. 14 Source: The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2018). Children living in households with a 

high housing cost burden. 15 Source: The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2018). Children under age six with no 

resident parent in the labor force in the United States.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

5 

Exhibit 1. Number and Percentage of Children Under Age Six Experiencing Homelessness in 

2017–2018 

Exhibit reads: In Alabama, there were 14,550 children under age six experiencing homelessness, or three percent 

of the total early childhood population across the state. 

Notes: The estimated numbers and percentages of children under age six experiencing homelessness in 2017–2018 

were calculated by applying the methodology used by the National Center for Family Homelessness in America’s 

Youngest Outcasts: A Report Card on Child Homelessness (Bassuk, DeCandia, Beach, & Berman, 2014). 

Source: U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without McKinney---Vento 

subgrants --- Total: 2017–2018. [Data set]. Retrieved July 23, 2019 from https://eddataexpress.ed.gov/.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

6 

Exhibit 2. Number and Percentage of Children Under Age Six Experiencing Homelessness and 

Served by Federally Funded Early Childhood Education Programs in 2017–2018 

Jurisdiction Number Percentage Jurisdiction Number Percentage

Alabama 491 3 Montana 983 26

Alaska 452 12 Nebraska 607 17

Arizona 1,215 5 Nevada 848 4

Arkansas 1,323 10 New Hampshire 348 9

California 18,363 7 New Jersey 1,491 12

Colorado 2,940 14 New Mexico 592 6

Connecticut 608 13 New York 11,708 8

Delaware 224 7 North Carolina 2,236 8

District of Columbia 1,286 18 North Dakota 328 16

Florida 3,949 4 Ohio 5,013 15

Georgia 1,509 4 Oklahoma 2,480 10

Hawaii 548 18 Oregon 4,734 21

Idaho 1,028 13 Pennsylvania 8,787 30

Illinois 5,047 10 Puerto Rico 1,076 18

Indiana 1,440 8 Rhode Island 273 19

Iowa 665 10 South Carolina 1,303 11

Kansas 1,585 19 South Dakota 940 48

Kentucky 1,215 5 Tennessee 1,065 6

Louisiana 961 5 Texas 12,902 6

Maine 340 14 Utah 671 5

Maryland 1,239 7 Vermont 309 44

Massachusetts 4,270 19 Virginia 1,511 8

Michigan 4,773 14 Washington 3,011 8

Minnesota 3,130 19 West Virginia 1,098 12

Mississippi 189 2 Wisconsin 2,308 13

Missouri 1,538 4 Wyoming 277 17

National 127,227 9

Exhibit reads: In Alabama, there were 491 children under age six experiencing homelessness who were served by 

Federally funded early childhood programs, or three percent of the total early childhood homeless population 

across the state.

Notes: This table presents the number and percentage of children under age six experiencing homelessness who 

were served by Head Start/Early Head Start or by the McKinney-Vento program in 2017–2018. These estimates 

may include a small number of children receiving services from both Head Start/Early Head Start and the 

McKinney-Vento program.

Sources: U.S. Department of Education. Homeless children and youth served by McKinney-­Vento subgrants-­--­ Ages birth throu

2: 2017–2018. [Data set]. U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or without 

McKinney-­Vento subgrants -­ Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018. [Data set]. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administrati

for Children and Families, Office of Head Start. (2018). Program information report: Total number of children experiencing 

homelessness that were served during the enrollment year. [Data set].
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

7 

Exhibit 3. High Housing Cost Burden and No Resident Parent in U.S. Labor Force: Percentage 

of Children Under Age Six Affected by These Related Factors in 2017 

Jurisdiction High 

Housing 

Cost 

Burden

No 

Resident 

Parent in 

U.S. Labor 

Force

Jurisdiction High 

Housing 

Cost 

Burden

No 

Resident 

Parent in 

U.S. Labor 

Force

Alabama 24 13 Montana 22 7

Alaska 31 8 Nebraska 22 5

Arizona 32 10 Nevada 33 9

Arkansas 24 10 New Hampshire 26 6

California 43 9 New Jersey 37 6

Colorado 31 6 New Mexico 28 14

Connecticut 35 7 New York 40 9

Delaware 29 8 North Carolina 27 9

District of Columbia 39 14 North Dakota 18 5

Florida 38 10 Ohio 25 8

Georgia 30 9 Oklahoma 26 9

Hawaii 36 10 Oregon 32 7

Idaho 24 7 Pennsylvania 27 9

Illinois 30 7 Puerto Rico 33 6

Indiana 23 8 Rhode Island 29 30

Iowa 19 4 South Carolina 28 10

Kansas 22 6 South Dakota 18 7

Kentucky 23 9 Tennessee 27 9

Louisiana 30 13 Texas 31 9

Maine 20 7 Utah 24 5

Maryland 32 7 Vermont 31 6

Massachusetts 32 8 Virginia 29 6

Michigan 25 9 Washington 31 7

Minnesota 22 4 West Virginia 22 17

Mississippi 26 12 Wisconsin 23 6

Missouri 24 8 Wyoming 22 6

National 31 8

Exhibit reads: In Alabama, 24 percent of families had a high housing cost burden where families spent 30 percent 

or more of monthly income on housing expenses, and 13 percent of children under age six with no resident parent 

in the labor force in the United States. 

Notes: This table presents the percentage of children under age 18 who lived in households with a high housing 

cost burden in 2016 (High Housing Cost Burden) which was defined as spending 30 percent or more of monthly 

income on housing expenses. It also presents the percentage of children under age six whose resident parents 

were not in the civilian labor force. 

Source: The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2018). Children living in households with a high housing cost 

burden [Data set]. Children under age six with no resident parent in the labor force in the United States. [Data set]. Retrieved 

fromhttp://datacenter.kidscount.org/. 
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

8 

References

Brumley, B., Fantuzzo, J., Perlman, S., & Zager, M. L. (2015). The unique relations between early 

homelessness and educational well---being: An empirical test of the continuum of risk 

hypothesis. Children and Youth Services Review, 48: 31---37.

Haskett, M. E., Armstrong, J., & Tisdale, J. (2015). Developmental status and social---emotional 

functioning of young children experiencing homelessness. Early Childhood Education Journal, 44: 

119---125.

Perlman, S.M. & Fantuzzo, J.W. (2010). Timing and impact of homelessness and maltreatment 

on school readiness. Children and Youth Services Review, 32: 874---883

National Scientific Council on the Developing Child (2007). The Timing and Quality of Early 

Experiences Combine to Shape Brain Architecture: Working Paper #5. 

http.www.developingchild.net 

U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2018). SC-EST2018-AGESEX-CIV: Annual 

Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year of Age and Sex for the United States and 

States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2018. https://www2.census.gov/programssurveys/popest/technical-documentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (2019). 2018 annual homeless assessment 

report, part 2: Estimates of homelessness in the U.S. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of

Housing and Urban Development.
Early Childhood Homelessness: National (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

23,977,152 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

1,455,537

or

1in 16children

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Early Childhood Education 

Children under age 6 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

experiencing homelessness 

9% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

55,340 , 

4% 70,704 , 

5%

1,329,493 , 

91%

National 

Head

Start/Early

Head Start

McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center.

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care &

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 9 
Early Childhood Homelessness: Alabama (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

351,424 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

14,550

or

1in 24children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities.

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

3% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 10 

351 , 2% 140 , 1%

14,059 , 

97%

Alabama 

Head

Start/Early

Head Start

McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center.

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care &

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

24% of families

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

13%of children

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4
Early Childhood Homelessness: Alaska (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

63,666 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

3,650

or

1in 17children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

Children under age 6 

8%of children under

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

experiencing homelessness 

12% served by Head Start/Early Head Start

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

393 , 11%

59 , 1%

3,198 , 

88%

Alaska 

Head

Start/Early

Head Start

McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 11 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center.

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care &

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Arizona (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

525,522 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

23,625

or

1in 22children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

32%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

10%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

5% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,118 , 

5% 97 , 0%

22,410 , 

95%

Arizona 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 12 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Arkansas (2017-2018) 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

228,324 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

13,606

or

1in 17children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

24% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

10%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

10% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

661 , 5% 662 , 5%

12,283 , 

90%

Arkansas 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 13 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: California (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

2,938,209 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

254,490

or

1in 12children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

43%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

7% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

4,048 , 

1% 14,315 , 

6%

236,127 , 

93%

California 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 14 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Colorado (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

404,522 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

21,664

or

1in 19children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

14% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 15 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

1,233 , 

6% 1,707 , 

8%

18,724 , 

86%

Colorado 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Connecticut (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

221,000

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

4,857

or

1in 46children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

35%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

13% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

487 , 10% 121 , 3%

4,249 , 

87%

Connecticut 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 16 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Delaware (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

65,829 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

3,374

or

1in 20children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

29%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

7% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

45 , 1% 179 , 5%

3,150 , 

94%

Delaware 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 17 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

 
Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

54,099 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

7,211

or

1in 8children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

39%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

18% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

468 , 7% 818 , 11%

5,925 , 

82%

District of Columbia

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

 Early Childhood Homelessness: District of Columbia (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

14%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 18 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Florida (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

1,372,427 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

92,170

or

1in 15children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

38%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

10%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

4% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

2,013 , 

2% 1,936 , 

2%

88,221 , 

96%

Florida 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 19 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Georgia (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

790,899 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

38,325

or

1in 21children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

30%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

4% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,013 , 

3% 496 , 1%

36,816 , 

96%

Georgia 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 20 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Hawaii (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

105,815 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

2,998

or

1in 35children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

18% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

226 , 7%

322 , 11%

2,450 , 

82%

Hawaii 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

36%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

10%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 21 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Idaho (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

 

Children under age 6 

Total population2

140,477 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

7,825

or

1in 18children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

24% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

13% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

452 , 6% 576 , 7%

6,797 , 

87%

Idaho 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 22 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Illinois (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

913,456 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

51,308

or

1in 18children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

30%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

10% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

2,155 , 

4% 2,892 , 

6%

46,261 , 

90%

Illinois 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 23 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Indiana (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

504,278 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

18,019

or

1in 28children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

23%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

8% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,163 , 

6% 277 , 2%

16,579 , 

92%

Indiana 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 24 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Iowa (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

238,253

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

6,900

or

1in 35children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

19%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

4%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

10% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

601 , 9%

64 , 1%

6,235 , 

90%

Iowa 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 25 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Kansas (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

228,400 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

8,198

or

1in 28children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

19% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,004 , 

12%

581 , 7%

6,613 , 

81%

Kansas 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 26 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Kentucky (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

331,163 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

23,199

or

1in 14children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

23%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

5% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

782 , 3% 433 , 2%

21,984 , 

95%

Kentucky 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 27 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Louisiana (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

367,501 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

17,743

or

1in 21children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

30%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

13%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

5% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

751 , 4% 210 , 1%

16,782 , 

95%

Louisiana 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 28 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Maine (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

77,535

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

2,366

or

1in 33children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

20%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

14% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

289 , 12% 51 , 2%

2,026 , 

86%

Maine 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 29 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Maryland (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

437,720 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

17,047

or

1in 26children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

32%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

7% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 30 

624 , 4% 615 , 3%

15,808 , 

93%

Maryland 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Massachusetts (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

433,679 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

22,834

or

1in 19children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

32%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

19% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,518 , 

7% 2,752 , 

12%

18,564 , 

81%

Massachusetts 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 31 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Michigan (2017-2018) 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

688,327 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

34,045

or

1in 20children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

25%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

14% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

2,027 , 

6% 2,746 , 

8%

29,272 , 

86%

Michigan 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 32 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Minnesota (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

427,480 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

16,143

or

1in 26children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

4%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

12% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,282 , 

8% 665 , 4%

14,196 , 

88%

Minnesota 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 33 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Mississippi (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

222,830 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

9,381

or

1in 24children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

26%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

12%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

2% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

157 , 2% 32 , 0%

9,192 , 

98%

Mississippi 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 34 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Missouri (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

447,782 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

34,872

or

1in 13children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

24% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

4% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,140 , 

3% 398 , 1%

33,334 , 

96%

Missouri 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 35 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Montana (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

75,154 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

3,852

or

1in 20children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

26% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

702 , 18% 281 , 7%

2,869 , 

75%

Montana 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 36 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Nebraska (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

159,441

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

3,606

or

1in 44children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in their 

communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

5%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

17% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

501 , 14%

106 , 3%

2,999 , 

83%

Nebraska 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 37 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2017). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2018). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved April 6, 

2018. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017.
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Nevada (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

224,164 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

20,015

or

1in 11children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

33%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

4% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

622 , 3% 226 , 1%

19,167 , 

96%

Nevada 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 38 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
Early Childhood Homelessness: New Hampshire (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

77,791 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

3,857

or

1in 20children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

26%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

9% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

265 , 7%

83 , 2%

3,509 , 

91%

New Hampshire 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 39 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: New Jersey (2017-2018) 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

623,905

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

12,817

or

1in 49children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

37% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

12% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

924 , 7% 567 , 5%

11,326 , 

88%

New Jersey 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 40 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: New Mexico (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

150,579 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

10,347 

or

1in 15children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

28%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

14%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

6% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

309 , 3% 283 , 3%

9,755 , 

94%

New Mexico 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 41 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: New York (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

1,367,038 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

145,880

or

1in 9children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

40%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

8% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

3,219 , 

2% 8,489 , 

6%

134,172 , 

92%

New York 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 42 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: North Carolina (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

732,927 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

27,989

or

1in 26children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

27% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

8% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,448 , 

5% 788 , 3%

25,753 , 

92%

North Carolina 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 43 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: North Dakota (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

65,112 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

2,088

or

1in 31children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

18% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

5%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

16% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

248 , 12%

80 , 4%

1,760 , 

84%

North Dakota 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 44 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Ohio (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

836,906 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

33,086

or

1in 25children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

25%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

8%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

15% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,925 , 

6% 3,088 , 

9%

28,073 , 

85%

Ohio 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 45 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Oklahoma (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

314,101 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

24,765

or

1in 13children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

26%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

10% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,239 , 

5% 1,241 , 

5%

22,285 , 

90%

Oklahoma 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 46 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Oregon (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

282,001 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

22,412

or

1in 13children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in their 

communities. 

32%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

21% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

2,667 , 

12% 2,067 , 

9%

17,678 , 

79%

Oregon 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 47 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Pennsylvania (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

847,012

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

29,659

or

1in 29children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

27% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

30% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

2,588 , 

9% 6,199 , 

21%

20,872 , 

70%

Pennsylvania 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 48 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Puerto Rico (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

65,211

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

6,040

or

1in 11children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

29%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

30%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

18% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

947 , 16%

129 , 2%

4,964 , 

82%

Puerto Rico 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 49 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Rhode Island (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

156,759

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

1,475

or

1in 106children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

33%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

19% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

165 , 11%

108 , 7%

1,202 , 

82%

Rhode Island 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 50 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: South Carolina (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

352,063 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

12,035

or

1in 29children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

28%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

10%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

11% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

530 , 4%

773 , 7%

10,732 , 

89%

South Carolina 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 51 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: South Dakota (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

74,445

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

1,973

or

1in 38children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

18% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

48% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

538 , 27%

402 , 21%

1,033 , 

52%

South Dakota 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 52 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Tennessee (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

488,658

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

17,206

or

1in 28children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

27% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

6% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

862 , 5% 203 , 1%

16,141 , 

94%

Tennessee 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 53 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Texas (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

2,431,014 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

224,020

or

1in 11children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

9%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

6% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

3,775 , 

2% 9,127 , 

4%

211,118 , 

94%

Texas 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 54 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Utah (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

304,884 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

13,402

or

1in 23children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

24% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

5%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

5% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

671 , 5% 0, 0%

12,731 , 

95%

Utah 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 55 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Vermont (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

35,769

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

699

or

1in 51children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

44% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

304 , 43%

5 , 1%

390 , 56%

Vermont 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 56 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Virginia (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

613,687

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

19,751

or

1in 31children 

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

29%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

8% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

838 673 

18,240 

Virginia 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 57 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Washington (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

556,098 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

38,849

or

1in 14children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

31% of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

7%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

8% served by Head Start/Early Head Start or 

McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,741 , 

5% 1,270 , 

3%

35,838 , 

92%

Washington 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 58 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: West Virginia (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

115,617 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

9,410

or

1in 12children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

17%of children 

under age six had no 

resident parent in the 

U.S. labor force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

12% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

610 , 7%

488 , 5%

8,312 , 

88%

West Virginia 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 59 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Wisconsin (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

402,925 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

18,259

or

1in 22children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

23%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

13% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

1,526 , 

8% 782 , 4%

15,951 , 

88%

Wisconsin 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 60 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 
 Early Childhood Homelessness: Wyoming (2017-2018) 

Early childhood experiences with homelessness have long lasting impacts on a child’s well-being. Access to educational services can help 

mitigate some of these negative effects.1 Federally-funded early childhood education (ECE) programs are only able to serve a small portion of 

children who experience homelessness. Taking action to mitigate the impacts of early childhood homelessness is critical to ensuring all young 

children have the opportunity to thrive. 

Early Childhood Homelessness

Children under age 6 

Total population2

43,274 

Estimated number 

experiencing homelessness3 

1,649

or

1in 26children

Early Childhood Education 

for Children Experiencing Homelessness

Related Factors 

Families experiencing homelessness, whether chronic or episodic, 

often face other barriers to affordable housing. By understanding 

these related challenges, states can create sustainable and 

proactive policy solutions that better address homelessness in 

their communities. 

22%of families 

with children under 18 

have a high housing 

cost burden4

Children under age 6 

experiencing homelessness 

17% served by Head Start/Early Head Start 

or McKinney-Vento funded ECE programs in 20185

175 , 11%

102 , 6%

1,372 , 

83%

Wyoming 

 Head

Start/Early

Head Start

 McKinneyVento

Unserved

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development 61 

For detailed information on indicator definitions, data sources, 

and methodology, please see Appendix III. 

Notes: 

1. McCoy-Roth, M., Mackintosh, B.B., & Murphey, D. (2013). When the 

bough breaks: The effects of homelessness on young children. Early 

Childhood Highlights, 3. 

2. U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2018-

AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year 

of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 

2018. https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technicaldocumentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf 

3. Calculations by authors using methodology established by Bassuk, et al. 

(2014) and 2018 data from U.S. Department of Education and U.S. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

4. Data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation KIDS COUNT data center. 

5. Data from U.S. Department of Education. (2019). Consolidated State 

Performance Reports, Part I and U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services, Administration for Children and Families. Retrieved July 23 

2019. (2018). Program Information Reports. Data on children under 6 

experiencing homelessness served through Federally-funded child care & 

home visiting programs will be collected for the first time in 2017. 

6%of children under 

age six had no resident 

parent in the U.S. labor 

force4
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

62

Appendix I: Data Sources and Methodology

Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles 2020 compiles data from multiple sources to 

provide policymakers and practitioners with information on the extent of early childhood 

homelessness and the availability of Federally funded early childhood education for young 

children experiencing homelessness across the United States. It also includes information about 

related economic factors that create barriers to stable, affordable housing for families. 

Data Sources

All data contained in this report are publicly available. Unless otherwise noted in the 

Methodology section below, data are from 2017–201816 and refer specifically to children under 

the age of six. Data for the profiles were drawn from the following sources:

The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2019). Children living in households 

with a high housing cost burden [Data set]. Retrieved fromhttp://datacenter.kidscount.org/. 

The Annie E. Casey Foundation, KIDS COUNT data center. (2019). Children under age six with no 

resident parent in the labor force in the United States. [Data set]. Retrieved from

http://datacenter.kidscount.org/. 

U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2019). SC-EST2017-AGESEX-CIV: Annual 

Estimates of the Civilian Population by Single Year of Age and Sex for the United States and 

States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2018. https://www2.census.gov/programssurveys/popest/technical-documentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/sc-est2018-agesex-civ.pdf

U.S. Department of Education. Homeless children and youth served by McKinney---Vento 

subgrants------ Ages birth through 2: 2017–2018. [Data set]. Retrieved July 23, 2019 from 

https://eddataexpress.ed.gov/. 

U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or 

without McKinney---Vento subgrants --- Total: 2017–2018. [Data set]. Retrieved July 23, 2019 from 

https://eddataexpress.ed.gov/. 

U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students enrolled in LEAs with or 

without McKinney---Vento subgrants --- Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018. [Data set]. Retrieved July 23, 2019 

from https://eddataexpress.ed.gov/. 

16 Data from the KIDS COUNT Data Center and the U.S. Census Bureau are reported for the calendar year

rather than school year.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

63

U.S. Department of Education. Total number of homeless students served by McKinney--- Vento 

subgrants --- Ages 3 to 5: 2017–2018 [Data set]. Retrieved July 23, 2019 from 

https://eddataexpress.ed.gov/. 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, 

Office of Head Start. (2018). Program information report: Total number of children experiencing 

homelessness that were served during the enrollment year. [Data set]. Retrieved from

https://hses.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/pir/. 

Methodology

This report is an update of Early Childhood Homelessness in the United States: 50---State Profile 

(January 2016,17 June 2017,

18 December 2018,19 June 201920) and follows a similar 

methodology. In each state profile, reported data on early childhood homelessness was either 

directly gathered from the data sources outlined above, or calculated using previously

established strategies. The following sections provide additional detail about the methodology 

for each variable reported in the profiles.

Early Childhood Homelessness

The number of children under age six in each state was calculated using single year of age 

population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimate Program.21

There are few existing estimates of the number of children under age six experiencing 

homelessness in the United States and existing estimates may significantly underestimate this 

population. Data from ED’s Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program are among the 

most comprehensive sources of data on children under 18 experiencing homelessness in the 

United States because state and local educational agencies (LEAs) are required to identify and 

report the number of children who are experiencing homelessness in their service areas.

However, these data may not include all children experiencing homelessness under age three, 

and most commonly refer to children in the LEA-administered early childhood programs. Thus, 

these numbers could underestimate at a statistically significant level the prevalence of 

homelessness in the early childhood period.

17 2016 Report: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ecd/homelessness_profile_package_blanks_final.pdf 18 2017 Report: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ecd/epfp_50_state_profiles_6_15_17_508.pdf 19 2018 Report: https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/disadv/homeless/early-childhood-homelessness-stateprofiles.pdf 20 2019 Report: https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/disadv/homeless/early-childhood-homelessness-stateprofiles-2019.pdf 21 U.S. Census Bureau, Population Division. (June 2018). SC-EST2018-AGESEX-CIV: Annual Estimates of the Civilian 

Population by Single Year of Age and Sex for the United States and States: April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2018. 

https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/technical-documentation/file-layouts/2010-2018/scest2018-agesex-civ.pdf
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

64

To better estimate the total population of children under age six who experience 

homelessness, the state profiles adopt the methodology used by the National Center for Family 

Homelessness in America’s Youngest Outcasts: A Report Card on Child Homelessness22 (Bassuk, 

DeCandia, Beach, & Berman, 2014). Broadly speaking, this methodology leverages ED’s 

comprehensive data on the number of children in grades K---12 experiencing homelessness to 

estimate early childhood homelessness.

Recent research demonstrates that about half (49.2 percent) of all children experiencing 

sheltered homelessness in 2015 were under age six (HUD, 2016).23 This methodology assumes 

that ED’s count of children in grades K---12 experiencing homelessness represents 50.8 percent

of the overall population of children experiencing homelessness. The calculation uses this 

proportion to estimate the number of children under age six experiencing homelessness 

nationally and in each state.

For example, ED’s data demonstrate that 1,502,872 children in grades K---12 experienced 

homelessness nationwide in 2017–2018. This figure does not include children ages three to five

who are enrolled in public preschool, but who are not yet in kindergarten.

The number of children in grades K---12 experiencing homelessness is divided by .508 to 

estimate the total number of children under age 18 experiencing homelessness nationwide: 

1,502,872/.508 = 2,958,409

We then multiply this estimate of the total number of children experiencing homelessness by 

.492 to approximate the number of children under age six experiencing homelessness 

nationwide in 2017–2018: 

2,958,409 x .492 = 1,455,537

While data calculated in this fashion come closer to conveying the extent of early childhood 

homelessness than some other estimates, they should be viewed as conservative. Bassuk and 

colleagues (2014) outline several limitations that suggest the estimates remain an undercount. 

While all school districts are required to report data on the enrollment of children experiencing 

homelessness to the Federal government, not all school districts are able to provide them. 

Where data are available, stigma or embarrassment surrounding homelessness may discourage 

some children and families from sharing their housing status with their local school. Further, 

the ED data only represent children who are enrolled in public schools.

22 https://www.air.org/sites/default/files/downloads/report/Americas-Youngest-Outcasts-Child-HomelessnessNov2014.pdf 23 The January 2016 edition of the state profiles estimated that 51 percent of all children experiencing

homelessness are under age 6 based on data using different research. Thus, the data presented in the 2017, 

2018, 2019, and 2020 editions of the state profiles should not be directly compared with data in the 

January 2016 report.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

65

To calculate the portion of children under age six experiencing homelessness in each state, the 

estimated number of children under age six experiencing homelessness is divided by the total 

population of children under age six in each state.

Early Childhood Education for Children Experiencing Homelessness

The number of young children and families experiencing homelessness enrolled in Head 

Start/Early Head Start, including the Migrant, and American Indian and Alaska Native programs, 

is reported each year to the Office of Head Start directly by Head Start grantees. These figures 

are available online through the Head Start Program Information Report database and 

represent a full program year. The national estimate of children experiencing homelessness 

served by Head Start/Early Head Start includes programs in U.S. territories.

The number of young children served by McKinney-­ Vento subgrants to school districts is

collected through the Consolidated State Performance Report, Part I. Data on the number of 

children served by a McKinney-­ Vento subgrant are submitted by school districts and include

children under age six (not enrolled in kindergarten). Estimates of the number of children 

served are likely conservative because some states do not require school districts to report 

data on the number of children under age three who are served by McKinney-­ Vento subgrants

To calculate the portion of children under age six experiencing homelessness that are served by 

Federally Funded early childhood education (ECE) programs, we added the number served by 

Head Start programs and McKinney-­ Vento subgrants and divided by the estimated number of

children under age six experiencing homelessness, rounding to the nearest percentage point. 

We then used the proportion of children served to estimate the proportion of children not 

served by either of the programs. It is possible that this total includes some duplicates (children 

served by both programs), though we would expect duplicates to be relatively few because 

LEAs comprise a minority of Head Start grantees nationwide.

These estimates do not account for young children experiencing homelessness that are served 

through Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) (subsidized child care) and the Individuals 

with Disabilities Education Act Part C and Part B, section 619 programs (early intervention, 

special education, and related services for infants, toddlers, and preschool children with 

disabilities) because these data are not currently available, but will be collected in future years. 

We expect that CCDF program will begin reporting data on the number of young children 

experiencing homelessness served in future years; integrating these data into future reports 

will further refine estimates of the proportion of children served and not served by Federally

Funded early care and education programs.
Early Childhood Homelessness State Profiles for Data Collected in 2017-18

66

Related Factors

Data for the Related Factors section were drawn directly from the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 

KIDS COUNT Data Center.

The percentage of families experiencing a high housing cost burden includes all families with a 

child under age 18. A high housing cost burden is defined as a family that spends 30 percent or 

more of monthly income on housing costs.

The percentage of children under age six with no parent in the U.S. labor force is defined as the

percentage of young children under age six whose resident parents are not in the civilian labor

force.

References

Bassuk, E.L., DeCandia, C.J., Beach, C.A., & Berman, F. (2014). America’s youngest outcasts: A 

report card on child homelessness. Newton Centre, MA: American Institutes for Research.

Department of Housing and Urban Development (2019). 2018 annual homeless assessment 

report, part II: Estimates of homelessness in the U.S. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of 

Housing and Urban Development.
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Appendix II: Federal Definitions of Homelessness

Homelessness is defined in different ways depending on the respective Federal law. Below are 

Federal definitions and key terms that are used when talking about “homeless children and 

youths.” 

McKinney---Vento Homeless Assistance Act Definition of “Homeless Children and 

Youths”

Several Federal laws use the McKinney---Vento Homeless Assistance Act definition of “homeless 

children and youths” found in section 725 of the Act (42 U.S.C. § 11434a(2)), to determine 

services for homeless children, including:

• the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965,

• the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and

• the Head Start Act.

Under section 725 of the Act (42 U.S.C. § 11434a(2)), the term "homeless children and 

youths"— 

A. means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence (within

the meaning of section 103(a)(1) of this title); and

B. includes—

i. children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of

housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels,

trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate

accommodations; are living in emergencyor transitional shelters; are abandoned

in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement;24

ii. children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or

private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping

accommodation for human beings (within the meaning of section 103(a)(2)(C) of

this title);

iii. children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned

buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and

24 “Awaiting foster care placement” was deleted from the definition of “homeless children and youths” during 

reauthorization of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act in 2015. For “covered” states (i.e., those that 

have a statutory law that defines or describes the phrase “awaiting foster care placement” for purposes of a 

program under Subtitle VII-B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act), the effective date for this 

change was December 10, 2017. For non-covered states, the effective date for this change was December 10, 

2016. 
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iv. migratory children (as such term is defined in section 1309 of the Elementary 

and Secondary Education Act of 1965) who qualify as homeless for the purposes 

of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in 

clauses (i) through (iii).

Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act of 2009 

(“HEARTH Act”) Definition of “Homeless”

Among other things, the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing Act

of 2009 modified the definition of “homeless” used by the U.S. Department of Housing and 

Urban Development (HUD). See 42 U.S.C. § 11302. The current definition of “homeless” used by 

HUD, as reflected in 24 C.F.R. § 583.5, is:

1) An individual or family who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence,

meaning:

i) An individual or family with a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private 

place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for 

human beings, including a car, park, abandoned building, bus or train station, 

airport, or camping ground;

ii) An individual or family living in a supervised publicly or privately-operated shelter 

designated to provide temporary living arrangements (including congregate shelters, 

transitional, and hotels and motels paid for by charitable organizations or by 

Federal, state, or local government programs for low-­ income individuals); o

iii) An individual who is exiting an institution where he or she resided for 90 days or less 

and who resided in an emergency shelter or place not meant for human habitation 

immediately before entering that institution;

2) An individual or family who will imminently lose their primary nighttime residence, 

provided that: 

i) The primary nighttime residence will be lost within 14 days of the date of application 

for homeless assistance;

ii) No subsequent residence has been identified; and

iii) The individual or family lacks the resources or support networks, e.g., family, friends, 

faith-­- based or other social networks, needed to obtain other permanent housing

3) Unaccompanied youth under 25 years of age, or families with children and youth, who 

do not otherwise qualify as homeless under this definition, but who:

i) Are defined as homeless under section 387 of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act

(42 U.S.C. 5732a), section 637 of the Head Start Act (42 U.S.C. 9832), section 41403 

of the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (42 U.S.C. 14043e-­ 2), section 330(h) of

the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b(h)), section 3 of the Food and Nutrition 

Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2012), section 17(b) of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 
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1786(b)), or section 725 of the McKinney-­Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C.

11434a);

ii) Have not had a lease, ownership interest, or occupancy agreement in permanent 

housing at any time during the 60 days immediately preceding the date of 

application for homeless assistance;

iii) Have experienced persistent instability as measured by two moves or more during 

the 60-­- day period immediately preceding the date of applying for homeless

assistance; and

iv) Can be expected to continue in such status for an extended period of time because 

of chronic disabilities, chronic physical health or mental health conditions, substance 

addiction, histories of domestic violence or childhood abuse (including neglect), the 

presence of a child or youth with a disability, or two or more barriers to 

employment, which include the lack of a high school degree or General Education 

Development (GED), illiteracy, low English proficiency, a history of incarceration or 

detention for criminal activity, and a history of unstable employment; or

4) Any individual or family who:

i) Is fleeing, or is attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, 

stalking, or other dangerous or life-­threatening conditions that relate to violence

against the individual or a family member, including a child, that has either taken 

place within the individual's or family's primary nighttime residence or has made the 

individual or family afraid to return to their primary nighttime residence;

ii) Has no other residence; and

iii) Lacks the resources or support networks, e.g., family, friends, and faith-­ based or

other social networks, to obtain other permanent housing.
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Appendix III: Federally Funded Early Childhood Programs

Head Start

https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs 

Head Start, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through 

the Office of Head Start at the Administration for Children and Families, is a comprehensive 

child development program that serves children from birth to age five, pregnant women, and 

their families. It is a child---focused, multi---generational program with the overall goal of 

increasing the school readiness of young children in low---income families. The children of 

families experiencing homelessness are categorically eligible for Head Start and are identified 

and prioritized for enrollment. 

Head Start and Early Head Start provide children and their families with services related to 

education; nutrition; developmental, medical and dental screenings; immunizations; mental 

health and social services referrals; family engagement; and in some cases transportation. Head 

Start was reauthorized by the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007 (Public 

Law 110---134). In this reauthorization, age---eligible children whose families are determined to be 

homeless are categorically eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Many Head 

Start grantees serve families experiencing homelessness through home---based and center---based 

programs, both of which provide many supportive services to children and families regardless 

of their living circumstances.

Child Care and Development Fund

https://www.acf.hhs.gov/occ 

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), administered by HHS through the Office of Child 

Care (OCC) at the Administration for Children and Families, awards grants to states, territories, 

and tribes to provide child care subsidies for low-income working families and to fund quality 

improvement activities such as professional development for child care providers. Subsidized 

childcare services are available to eligible families through certificates (vouchers), or grants and 

contracts with providers. Approximately 1.3 million children receive a childcare subsidy from 

the CCDF program every month. As a block grant, this program offers States, territories, and 

tribes significant flexibility in designing their CCDF policies, including the ability to define 

eligibility and prioritize resources. OCC encourages states to leverage this flexibility to offer 

access to the most vulnerable populations, including families experiencing homelessness.

On November 19, 2014, the President signed into law the Child Care and Development Block 

Grant (CCDBG) Act of 2014, which reauthorized the Child Care and Development Fund. This 

reauthorization of CCDF included significant changes in defining health and safety requirements 

for childcare providers, outlining family---friendly eligibility policies, expanding quality 

improvement efforts, and ensuring parents and the public have transparent information about 
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the child care choices available to them. One of these changes required States to report 

whether children receiving CCDF assistance are children experiencing homelessness, using the 

McKinney---Vento Homeless Assistance Act definition of homelessness.

25 Collecting this data will 

be important for tracking performance on serving children and families who are experiencing 

homelessness.

Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting

https://mchb.hrsa.gov/maternal-child-health-initiatives/home-visiting-overview

The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, administered by 

the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in partnership with the 

Administration for Children and Families, supports voluntary, evidence-based home visiting 

programs for at-risk pregnant women and parents with children up to kindergarten entry. The 

MIECHV program was initially created in 2010 under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care 

Act (Public Law 111--148) and provides grants to states, tribes, and territories to establish 

programs that: 

• Improve maternal and child health

• Prevent child abuse and neglect

• Promote positive parenting

• Support child development

These aims are achieved through regular meetings between a family and a trained professional 

or paraprofessional in the family’s home. In FY 2018, the MIECHV Program served all 50 states, 

the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. Among the 55 awardees with available data, 

the Program served approximately 150,000 parents and children. In FY 2018, MIECHV awardees 

reported serving 2,261 adult participants experiencing homelessness. This accounts for 

approximately 3% of all adult participants served.

In 2019 HRSA awarded approximately $351 million in funding to 56 states, territories, and 

nonprofit organizations. Awardees must invest the majority of funds received to implement

evidence-based home visiting models with up to 25% of funding available to support the 

implementation and evaluation of promising approaches.

25 While the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act implemented by the U.S. Department of Health and 

Human Services relies on the McKinney---Vento Homeless Assistance Act definition of “homeless children and 

youths” found in 42 U.S.C. § 11434a(2) of such Act, the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) regulations 

also require its Lead Agencies to use the McKinney-Vento definition. 
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The Education for Homeless Children and Youths program under the McKinneyVento Homeless Assistance Act

https://www2.ed.gov/programs/homeless/index.html 

Subtitle VII-B of the McKinney--- Vento Homeless Assistance Act offers support for states, tribes, 

and outlying areas to ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness have equal 

access to a free and appropriate public education. The McKinney---Vento Homeless Assistance 

Act was initially passed in 1987, though was most recently amended through the Every Student 

Succeeds Act in 2015. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). 

In 2017–2018, the Education for Homeless Children and Youths Program received $85 million in

Federal funding. Each year, ED allocates formula grants to states based on their share of Title I, 

Part A; the Bureau of Indian Affairs and outlying areas also receive funds. In turn, each state 

must distribute at least 75 percent26 of its grant to local educational agencies (LEAs) to 

facilitate educational success for children and youth experiencing homelessness through a 

competitive subgrant process.

LEAs may use subgrant funds for activities such as collaboration with other local entities and 

resolving challenges related to transportation, school records, and residency requirements. In 

each state, program funds also support a coordination office to monitor the needs of children 

and youth experiencing homelessness.27

26 Under 42 U.S.C. § 11432(e)(1), states funded at the minimum level must distribute not less than 50 percent in 

subgrants to LEAs. 27 For more information, see: https://www2.ed.gov/programs/homeless/ehcyprogramprofile.pdf. 
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www.ed.gov