A “Sample Letter To Prove To Colleges Student Was Homeless” confirms a student’s housing situation. Colleges may require this for financial aid. It’s often needed when a student lacks a fixed, regular nighttime residence.
Need to write such a letter? You’re in the right place. We’ll share templates and examples.
These samples will make writing easier. Tailor them to your specific situation. Get ready to craft your letter!
Sample Letter To Prove To Colleges Student Was Homeless
**Sample Letter To Prove To Colleges Student Was Homeless**
[Date]
Admissions Committee
[College Name]
[College Address]
**Subject: Verification of Homeless Status for [Student’s Full Name]**
Dear Admissions Committee,
This letter confirms that [Student’s Full Name], born on [Student’s Date of Birth], experienced homelessness during their high school years.
[Student’s Full Name] resided in [Shelter Name, if applicable, or describe living situation, e.g., “various temporary locations,” “unsheltered locations,” “with multiple families due to economic hardship”]. This unstable housing situation persisted from approximately [Start Date] to [End Date].
During this period, [Student’s Full Name]’s housing was not fixed, regular, or adequate, as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This lack of stable housing significantly impacted their educational experience.
I am [Your Name], [Your Title] at [Your Organization/School Name]. I am familiar with [Student’s Full Name]’s situation through [Explain your relationship, e.g., “my role as their school counselor,” “my work at the local shelter,” “personal knowledge of their family situation”].
Please consider [Student’s Full Name]’s circumstances as you review their application. Their resilience and dedication to education, despite facing significant housing challenges, are truly commendable.
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Organization/School Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
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How to Write Letter To Prove To Colleges Student Was Homeless
Subject Line: Concision is Key
- Employ a straightforward subject line: “Verification of Homeless Status – [Student’s Full Name]”.
- Avoid ambiguity; clarity expedites processing.
Salutation: Formalities Matter
- Opt for a professional greeting: “To Whom It May Concern,” or address a specific college official if known.
- Evade casual salutations like “Hey” or “Hello”.
Introduction: Setting the Stage
- Immediately state your relationship to the student (e.g., social worker, school counselor, case manager).
- Declare the letter’s intent: “This letter serves to verify [Student’s Full Name]’s homeless status during [Specific Period].”
- Succinctness is paramount.
Body Paragraph 1: Chronicle the Circumstances
- Delineate the specifics of the student’s homelessness. Examples: “Lacking a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence,” or “Residing in a shelter or transitional housing program.”
- Provide a timeline: When did the homelessness commence and, if applicable, cease?
- Incorporate any contributing factors judiciously, without sensationalizing.
Body Paragraph 2: Substantiating Evidence
- Corroborate claims with concrete examples. For instance: “The student resided at [Shelter Name] from [Start Date] to [End Date].”
- Include contact information for verification purposes if allowed: “[Shelter Director’s Name], [Shelter Phone Number]”.
- Prudence suggests limiting superfluous details.
Body Paragraph 3: Affirmation of Support
- Express your belief in the student’s potential: “Despite these adversities, [Student’s Name] has demonstrated remarkable resilience and academic fortitude.”
- Offer a concise endorsement of the student’s character and capabilities.
- Keep it brief, yet impactful.
Closing: Professional Courtesy
- Use a formal closing: “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”.
- Include your full name, title, organization, phone number, and email address.
- Extend an invitation for further inquiry: “Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require additional information.”
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Frequently Asked Questions: Homeless Verification Letter for College Applications
This section provides answers to common inquiries regarding letters verifying a student’s homeless status for college application purposes. Understanding the specifics of these letters can significantly aid students in accessing critical financial aid and support.
Who is authorized to write a homeless verification letter?
Authorized individuals include school district homeless liaisons, shelter providers, social workers, counselors, financial aid officers, or staff at federal programs like McKinney-Vento.
What information should be included in the verification letter?
The letter must state that the student meets the definition of “homeless” according to the McKinney-Vento Act. It should include the student’s name, date of birth, a brief description of their living situation, and the contact information of the verifying official.
Is there a specific template that must be used?
While no mandatory template exists, using a formal letter format is recommended. Ensure all essential details, as outlined above, are clearly presented.
How long is a homeless verification letter valid?
The validity period can vary. Some colleges may accept a letter issued within the past year, while others might require a more recent verification. It’s best to check with the specific college’s financial aid office.
Where should the verification letter be submitted?
Typically, the letter should be submitted to the college’s financial aid office alongside the student’s FAFSA or other required documentation.