Madison Reporter

Throughout November, the Madison Metropolitan School District's (MMSD) Transition Education Program (TEP) is conducting a drive to collect winter gear and essential hygiene products for students and families. This initiative is part of the district's annual efforts during Homelessness Awareness Month.

Currently, over 800 MMSD students meet the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act’s definition of "homeless," which refers to those lacking a "fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence." This number is expected to increase as the year progresses. In the 2023–24 school year, homeless students made up more than 5% of the district’s total enrollment.

"Homelessness is something that’s often silent and invisible, but for those experiencing it, its effects can be all-consuming," said Jani Koester, TEP resource teacher. "For students, having dependable shelter is critically important to intellectual and socio-emotional development. It provides the foundation on which the learning process is built."

Throughout November, MMSD seeks donations of hair and skin care products, laundry soap, body wash, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, toothpaste and toothbrushes, socks in any size, hair accessories, boots, waterproof gloves and snow pants. Donations can be made at the Doyle Administration Building or at individual schools across the city.

Additionally, at its Doyle administration building, MMSD displays ribbons representing 1,357 students (and their 222 younger siblings) who identified as homeless last year. The ribbons symbolize four groups: non-school-age children and elementary through high school students; each group has a different shade of purple ribbon to represent homelessness awareness.

"The ribbons are a physical representation of the hardships that many of our students and families quietly face," Koester stated. "They serve as a reminder that homelessness is not a problem that exists exclusively somewhere else. It’s right here in Madison, and whether we realize it or not, it affects our entire community."

TEP maintains a donation center stocked with clothing and care items throughout the year for those in need. Community members interested in supporting this effort are encouraged to contact tep@madison.k12.wi.us.