DC Scholars C.A.R.E. Program
Supporting Families Through Every Challenge
At DC Scholars, we believe that every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their housing situation. Our C.A.R.E. Program provides comprehensive support to families experiencing housing instability, ensuring that students can focus on learning and thriving.
Our C.A.R.E. Commitment
Our C.A.R.E. Program is designed to support families identified through the McKinney-Vento Act or those needing additional resources to fully participate in all school programs. We're here to remove barriers and provide the support your family needs.
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Our staff build trusting relationships with families, ensuring you feel welcomed, understood, and supported in your unique situation.
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We advocate for immediate enrollment and ensure students receive equitable access to all school programs, services, and resources without barriers.
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We provide families with essential support—from transportation and meals to academic and social-emotional services—responding to needs promptly and efficiently.
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We empower students and families by offering continuous educational stability, academic support, and opportunities to thrive despite housing challenges.
Does Your Family Qualify?
Your child may be eligible for the DC Scholars C.A.R.E. Program if your family is currently:
Living in temporary accommodations such as shelters, motels, or campgrounds
Sharing housing with others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar circumstances
Living in non-traditional spaces like cars, parks, public spaces, or abandoned buildings
In temporary housing due to domestic violence or other crisis situations
Note: In most cases, eligibility is directly certified by OSSE. Receiving TANF or SNAP benefits does not automatically qualify families for McKinney-Vento services.
Understanding McKinney-Vento
What is the McKinney-Vento Act?
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that ensures all children and youth experiencing housing instability have access to free, appropriate public education. This law removes barriers that might otherwise prevent students from enrolling, attending, and succeeding in school.
Your Rights Under McKinney-Vento:
Immediate school enrollment, even without typical documentation
Transportation to and from school
Access to all school programs and services
Educational stability and continuity
How We Support You
Immediate Assistance:
Help with school enrollment and registration
Transportation solutions
Access to meals and nutrition programs
School supplies and uniforms when needed
Ongoing Support:
Academic support and tutoring
Social-emotional counseling services
Connection to community resources
Advocacy for your family's needs
Educational Stability:
Maintaining enrollment in your child's school of origin when possible
Ensuring seamless transitions between schools
Coordinating with teachers to support academic progress
Get Connected Today
Ready to Access Support?
If you think your child may be eligible for McKinney-Vento services, or if you need assistance navigating resources, we're here to help. Our Student Wellness team is committed to ensuring your child has everything they need to succeed.
Contact Our C.A.R.E. Team
Email: mkv@dcscholars.org
Phone: Contact our main office to be connected with our Student Wellness team
Confidential & Supportive
All conversations and services are provided with complete confidentiality and respect. Our goal is to support your family's success while honoring your dignity and privacy.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Let us help remove the barriers so your student can focus on what matters most—their education and future.
Questions?
Need immediate assistance? Don't hesitate to reach out—we're here for you.
