Action Alert, Federal Policy (July 2026)
The Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth Act (HEASHFY)
Discover how the HEASHFY Act supports higher education access and success for homeless and foster youth. This article details the Act’s provisions and offers insights into how it can help students navigate their educational journey.
On July 27 and July 28, 2026, the Higher Education Access and Success for Homeless and Foster Youth (HEASHFY) Act of 2026 (S.5146/H.R.9960), was re-introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37) and Erin Houchin (R-IN-09) and in the U.S. Senate by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA).
HEASHFY removes barriers and ensures that homeless and foster youth have clear and reliable pathways into and through higher education. This legislation:
- Requires institutions of higher education to designate a homeless and foster liaison to help students navigate higher education and access services;
- Requires institutions of higher education to develop a plan for homeless and foster youth to access on-campus housing during and between academic breaks;
- Asks states to grant in-state tuition rates to those students who haven’t had stable residency; and
- Ensures that college access programs identify, recruit, and prepare homeless and foster students for college
Take Action Today!
- Please fill out this form to add your organization to the list of supporters.
- Urge your U.S. Representative and U.S. Senators to cosponsor HEASHFY and help ensure homeless and foster youth have a fair shot at higher education. It takes one minute — this action automatically sends your message to your Members of Congress.
- Spread the word. Share this alert and the endorsement form with partner organizations, coalitions, and colleagues who work with students experiencing homelessness or foster care, and encourage them to co-sign.
The Data Behind the Barriers: Higher Education Resources and Research
- Youth Homelessness and Higher Education: An Overview (Updated July 2026)
- Removing Barriers, Building Futures: Data-Informed Policies to Support College Students Experiencing Homelessness
- Full Report, 2024 Data – Published February 2026
- Companion Update, 2025 Data – Published June 2026