The Junior League of Albuquerque began partnering with APS Title I Homeless Project in January of 2009.

APS Title I Homeless Project: Background and Mission
The Albuquerque Public Schools Title I Homeless Project provides the means, motivation, and encouragement needed for homeless students to reach their potential as productive members of society. 
Children and youth in homeless situations face numerous barriers to educational success.  Deep poverty, high mobility and school requirements often make attending and succeeding in school a challenge.  Despite these challenges, many students who experience homelessness not only graduate from high school but also wish to pursue a college education. 
As families face increasing levels of economic and social stress, community outreach and mental health services and volunteer support remain vital links uniting home, school, and community to support children and youth in their academic and social success. 
The Homeless Project began in 1994 and identified 510 homeless children.  During the 2007-2008 school year, over 3,500 students were served.  In 2008-2009 APS Title 1 enrollment increased by nearly 2000 students. The project services include: outreach advocacy; after-school tutoring; school supplies; clothing and uniforms; food, health and mental services; summer programs, pre-graduation transition assessments, and; assistance with various school fees APS Title 1 offers services from students from Preschool through Graduation.
The League and APS Title I Homeless Project
The Junior League of Albuquerque will provide $7,000 annually to support two evening meals per week for homeless children. 

In addition, the trained volunteer members of the League will make contributions:

• Filling backpacks with school supplies, food and clothing items.
• Collecting various items for homeless children including toiletries, gloves, hats, scarves and blankets.
• Collecting food items to be distributed to homeless children.
• Collecting prom dresses to be distributed to homeless teens. The Junior League collected 200 plus dresses for students to wear to Prom and other school dances, along with countless pairs of shoes, and other accessories.
• Collecting other items to support Title I programs including birthday party supplies and cards.
• The Junior League members maintain the garden and playground area at the Title 1 offices
• Linked APS Title 1 with medical services donated by League Members and friends of the Junior League.

The League will also work with the APS Title I Project to develop fundraising activities to provide financial support  for their programs.

For more information on the Junior League’s partnership with APS Title I Homeless Project, please contact the League office at (505) 260-0199.

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