Smyrna Rotary Rallies to Support 2,200+ Homeless Students Through ATLAS Program

Supporting ATLAS at Our December 18th Meeting

About ATLAS

ATLAS (Academic Time Leads to Achieving Students) is a vital program provided by Rutherford County Schools that serves families in transition—specifically students whose families are experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. These school-based services include weekend food backpacks, hygiene supplies, transportation to school, and numerous other essential resources that help keep students healthy, safe, and ready to learn.

Our Club’s Commitment

The Past Presidents, under Mike Woods’ direction, have been proud supporters of ATLAS for several years. This partnership represents the very best of what Rotary stands for: service above self and making a tangible difference in our community.

Why Your Support Matters Now More Than Ever

Last year alone, Rutherford County identified over 2,200 homeless students in need of ATLAS services. The need is urgent and growing, especially with the program facing the loss of federal funding in 2025. Our support can help bridge this critical gap and ensure that vulnerable students continue to receive the care they need.

Special Guest: Jessica from ATLAS

At our December 18th meeting, Jessica, a wonderful advocate for these students, will be sharing more about the specific needs facing ATLAS students and how our club can make a meaningful impact. Her insights will help us better understand the challenges these families face and the difference our contributions can make.

How You Can Help

We’re asking all members to bring donations to our December 18th meeting. Please consider bringing:

Food Pantry Items Needed:
– Pop-top or vacuum packed chicken or tuna
– Cookies
– Microwave macaroni and cheese
– Peanut butter and cheese crackers
– Peanut butter
– Pop-top, microwave meals like chili and beef stew
– Pop Tarts
– Soup
– Granola bars
– Rice-a-Roni cups

Hygiene Supplies (see attached list)

Financial Contributions
We will pass the hat during the meeting for those who wish to contribute financially.

Every item counts, and no contribution is too small. When we pool our resources together, our club can make a huge difference in the lives of these students and their families.

A Call to Action

As we gather for our last meeting of the year, let’s demonstrate the power of Smyrna Rotary’s compassion and generosity. These students are counting on us, and together we can ensure they have the support they need to succeed.

Please mark your calendars, review the attached supply lists, and bring whatever you can to our December 18th meeting. Thank you in advance for your generous support of ATLAS and the students who need us most.

*When we work together, we don’t just change numbers—we change lives.*

What Is The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act?

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act defines “homeless children and youth” as children and youth who
lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, and includes:

• Children and youth who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels or campgrounds due to the lack of adequate alternative accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement;

• Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for humans;

• Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and

• Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.

This definition does not consider families or youth who have stable, voluntary, shared living arrangements to be homeless.

Rights: Students who are experiencing homelessness have the right to receive educational services that provide full and equal opportunities to succeed in school.  Homeless students have the right to immediately enroll in school, even if they do not have proof of residence or any other required school or health records.  If any required documentation is missing, it can be obtained after the student is enrolled.  Homeless students have the right to remain in their school of origin, if feasible, and receive transportation services.

Services: All ATLAS services are school-based. Many services are available, based on individual student needs. In addition to transportation, these include, but are not limited to: assistance with enrollment and transfer of records; automatic participation in federal nutrition program; school and special project supplies; academic support through Title I; weekend food backpacks; hygiene supplies; summer reading material; and information about agencies that provide services. ATLAS cannot assist families with rent, utilities, or housing.

Partnering with Parents: Parents of ATLAS students in Rutherford County Schools are encouraged to be active partners with us in their child’s education. Please talk with the ATLAS contact at your child’s school about parental involvement opportunities at the school. Parents are invited to contact their child’s teacher or school counselor for a followup conference within 30 days of their child’s enrollment in the ATLAS program.

Contact information: Every school has an ATLAS contact person who is trained in identifying students who qualify for the program. If you or someone you know is a student experiencing homelessness, please contact your school and ask for the ATLAS Contact.  You may also contact the Rutherford County ATLAS Liaison, Jessica Johnson by email at johnsonje@rcschools.net should you have any questions regarding the rights and services of homeless students.

The mission statement of the ATLAS program is, “Empowering students to overcome barriers with increased stability and support.”

For more information on how you or your church, group or non-profit can get involved reach out to Jessica Johnson, ATLAS Liaison At (615) 893-5815 ext. 22225 or email johnsonje@rcschools.net.