The McKinney-Vento Act defines homelessness in a broad manner to encompass a wide range of unstable housing situations that children and youth might experience. This broad definition ensures that children and youth who do not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence are recognized, including those doubling up with others due to economic hardship, living in motels or shelters, staying in places not meant for regular sleeping, or living in cars and public spaces. The flexible and inclusive definition helps in identifying and providing appropriate educational support and services to all students facing homelessness, recognizing the variety of challenging living conditions that can disrupt educational stability.
