EmpowerEd (McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act)

Legislation: HB24-1403

Purpose: Provides postsecondary education financial aid support for students who experienced housing disruptions while enrolled in Colorado high school

Award Details: Covers the remaining balance of a student's total cost of attendance after all other financial aid awards have been applied

Eligibility:

• Must have been identified by designated personnel as a homeless child or youth pursuant to the federal McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act while residing in Colorado
• Homeless experience must have occurred anytime between:
  • Start of 9th grade
  • End of 12th grade

Geographic Scope: Colorado residents; eligible institutions are accredited Colorado public institutions

Proof of Homelessness:

• If graduated after October 2024: Must present proof of homeless experience signed by authorizing entity for homeless determination

Additional Resources: Colorado EmpowerEd Program website

Application Process

1. Complete Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) OR Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA)
2. Be accepted and enrolled at an accredited Colorado public institution of higher education (like CMC)
3. Complete the EmpowerEd Application through the State of Colorado for the applicable award year
   • Note: The State has a deadline for the application (see their website for specific dates)
4. Provide proof of homeless experience:
   • If graduated after October 2024: Present proof signed by authorizing entity
   • If graduated before October 2024: Documentation will be received by Colorado Department of Higher Education from Colorado Department of Education
5. Contact a Financial Aid Specialist at CMC for CMC-specific information on how to apply once you complete FAFSA or CASFA

Required Materials:

• FAFSA or CASFA
• EmpowerEd Application (completed through State of Colorado)
• Proof of homeless experience