Since 1989, H.E.A.T. has served children from birth to twenty-one years of age with their educational, social, and family needs. It is jointly funded by Dropout Prevention Services, Title 1 services, and a McKinney-Vento state grant.

Use the links to the left to discover the services available through H.E.A.T. and other items related to homeless children and families.

The mission of the Homeless Education Assistance Team is to assist with the educational, social, and family needs of homeless children and youth by coordinating communication and services among schools, communities, and families.

Under the federal McKinney-Vento Act reauthorized in 2002, a family is considered in transition (or homeless) if they and/or their children:
• Lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence
• Share the housing of others due to financial hardship
• Live in motels, hotels, trailer parks, camping grounds, substandard housing due to lack of adequate alternative
     accommodations
• Living in emergency or transitional shelters
• Abandoned in hospitals
• Awaiting foster care placement
• Living in a public or private place not designed for humans to live
• Living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, bus or train stations, etc.
• Migratory children living in above circumstances

The definition does not include any person imprisoned, detained, or in the custody of the state.

Family Resources
Get Connected. Get Answers
A telephone crisis intervention services and information/referrals to local health and human services in your area regarding medical, mental, shelter, food, clothing, support for children, youth, and families. Visit: Just dial 211

211 Tampa Bay Cares
Call 2-1-1 or Visit 211 Tampabay Cares to Find Help:
-Homeless Services
-Housing
-Financial Assistance
-Medical Care
-Food Programs
-Parenting
-And Much More...
 
For 3-digit blocked access or cell phone access, call 727-210-4211.

Housing
Download Housing List For:
-Family Shelters
-Housing Authorities
-Affordable Housing
-Rent Assistance