To Address Homeless Students, NYC Adds Health Clinics

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New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio recently announced the city’s intention to spend nearly $30 million to increase health services to deal with the growing number of homeless students. Funding, which will come from the state, will be used toward new school-based health centers and programs inside homeless shelters that help children with literacy and attendance.

Per recent reports, New York City (29% Latino population) has a rising homeless population, including more than 86,000 public school students in temporary housing. That number has risen 25% since 2010. More than 23,000 of New York City’s students live in homeless shelters.

“If we can support their well being, they can feel better, attend school, focus on their school work,” said Elizabeth Rose, the head of operations for the New York City Department of Education. “[That] will support their academic outcomes.”

Latino New Yorkers are disproportionately affected by homelessness. Approximately 31 percent of New York City homeless shelter residents are Latino. As part of the new initiative, $19.5 million will be used to build health clinics at over a dozen elementary school campuses. Data from a recent study determined that students who attended schools with health clinics miss less class time.

“This budget states our priorities,” said de Blasio during a press conference announcing the new initiative. “We are doubling down on building [a pathway] to college.”

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