Jiménez Celebrates Legislation Expanding Support for Homeless Students

CHICAGO IL.– State Rep. Lilian Jiménez, D-Chicago, is creating more transparent reporting and support for Illinois’ homeless children population under a new law, continuing her efforts to address the housing crisis in our state.

“With rising housing costs, more families are experiencing homelessness or are on the brink of it, putting their kid’s education at risk,” Jiménez said. “Before this legislation, there was little oversight, monitoring and concrete support for homeless students and their unique needs. I am proud to have joined the sponsor and demand a better standard of treatment for our homeless population and those facing impermanent housing across our state. Chicago is not alone in eliminating homelessness and supporting young families. We join communities across Illinois who are celebrating this victory.”

The Jiménez-backed House Bill 5407 requires the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to expand its yearly assessment of schools with information on how many homeless youth there are in Illinois schools and how school districts are ensuring full support for these vulnerable students. Using this information, the ISBE can augment their financial support for these students with additional rental, emergency housing and transportation assistance as well as help with obtaining school supplies and enrichment programs.

A product of negotiations with the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, House Bill 5407 was signed into law Friday, Aug. 2.