Number of homeless children attending schools in Twin Falls on the rise

The number of homeless children attending schools in Twin Falls is on the rise.

The Times-News reports that as of October, 272 homeless students were enrolled. That’s up from 192 in October 2014 — an increase of 80 homeless students.

Administrators say that’s partly because they are better at identifying students who don’t have permanent housing.

School at-risk coordinator JoAnne Gemar says school might be the only stable environment some of these children see each day.

For that reason, schools are collecting food and hygiene products to help homeless students.

Donations can be dropped off through Nov. 22 at any of the Twin Falls School District’s seven elementary schools or the district office.