Officials say they are seeing more and more homeless families in Anchorage. We take a look at a program that is helping the children of those families keep it together.

Studies tell us that kids need stability; and when they are not getting that in their home life, then they need to get it at school. As you can imagine, that is particularly important for children who are homeless.

On a typical day at Willowcrest Elementary School, from the looks of the children in the hallways, it would be hard to guess that some of them are homeless.

"We know who the children are and who needs extra support, because we know who's in the program. But if I was to ask all the teachers, unless we've really worked with them, many of them wouldn't just say, 'She...she...she,'" said Willow Crest principal, Diane Hoffbauer.

Hoffbauer, the program principal, is talking about the Child in Transition Program. It's based on a federal law that says homeless children have a right to continue at the school where they started and stay through the school year.

"That includes people who you would normally think of who are living in shelters. Also families who are living in motels or doubled up with family or friends because they do not have any other place to be," said Trish O'Gorman of Child in Transition Program.

What the program provides primarily is transportation: shuttles or busses that pick kids up from all over town and bring them back to their home school. And if a shuttle is not an option, they have the funds to get creative.

"Taxi cabs, Anchor Rides, People Mover bus passes. And if a family is lucky enough to have a car, we can provide gas coupons," said O'Gorman.

The program can also give support in different ways. Yadira Ramos-Mayes works with the homeless children at Willowcrest, but she also makes a point of checking in with their parents.

"Like if they are looking for housing, whatever issue they have, I ask them. And they like to be called. They just need someone. Even if I can't do much for them, just the fact that you are calling and asking them how things are going," said Family Services Coordinator Yadira Ramos-Mayes.

School officials say it's that kind of caring attitude that can make a difference in all children's lives and break the cycle of despair.

"When you are providing a good education, a safe environment and support programs, then kids don't stand out as a child being homeless, or a child of this. Children are children. And when people pay attention, all children thrive," said Hoffbauer.

Last year the Anchorage School District served more than 2,000 kids in the Child in Transition Program. It's open to any student who is homeless or living in a

transitional situation.

For More Information:

    Child in Transition Program: 907-742-3833

To contact Lauren, call 907-273-3186.