MMSD Highlights Homelessness Awareness Month with Community Support Efforts

This autumn, MMSD’s (MMSD) Transition Education Program (TEP) is recognizing Homelessness Awareness Month by inviting the community to support students and families experiencing housing instability.

For the 2024-25 school year, as many as 1,304 MMSD students and 141 non-school-aged children met the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act’s definition of “homeless”: those lacking a “fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence.” That total represents approximately 5% of the district’s total enrollment, underscoring the scope of the challenge within the Madison community.

“Each of our students deserves stability, belonging and a sense of safety,” Superintendent Dr. Joe Gothard said. “Homelessness affects every aspect of a child’s well-being and education, and it’s our shared responsibility as a community to ensure every student has what they need to learn and thrive.”

As it does every year throughout November and December, MMSD is accepting donations of clothing and personal care items to help meet the needs of students and families. Requested items include:

• Hair products
• Hair accessories
• Skin products
• Laundry soap
• Body wash
• Deodorant
• Feminine hygiene items
• Toothpaste and toothbrushes
• Socks (any size)
• Coats
• Boots
• Waterproof gloves
• Snow pants

Donations may be made at the Doyle Administration Building (545 W. Dayton St.) or at individual schools across Madison.

MMSD also create a visual representation of the students and families who have experienced homelessness in the past year. The display, a purple ribbon for each student experiencing homelessness, is located outside the Doyle building and serves as a reminder that housing instability affects children and families throughout our community.

“Homelessness can look different for every family, but what remains constant is the need for care and connection,” Jani Koester, TEP resource teacher said. “The display will represent real students, each with their own story, resilience and hope. Our goal is to make sure every one of them feels seen, supported and valued.”

TEP supports students and families experiencing homelessness throughout the school year. Community members interested in contributing to its ongoing donation center or learning more are encouraged to contact tep@madison.k12.wi.us.

Additionally, the Madison Public Schools Foundation (MPSF) partners with MMSD to manage the TEP Fund, which allows TEP staff to address urgent situations and purchase essential items not available through the donation center. To donate, please visit MPSF's website.