Family Assistance
The staff of Portage Township Schools believes in educating the whole child through our Social & Emotional Learning Program. We are here to provide our families with the services they need to be successful in their academic careers.
If you are homeless or living with another family due to economic hardship within PortageTownship Schools' district, please contact Dr. Michael Stephens at (219) 764-6004 or email [email protected]. Families may also contact the state for assistance at the following information:
If you are homeless or living with another family due to economic hardship within PortageTownship Schools' district, please contact Dr. Michael Stephens at (219) 764-6004 or email [email protected]. Families may also contact the state for assistance at the following information:
Gina Woodward, Homeless Education Specialist
Indiana Department of Education
(317)232-9189 | [email protected]
If you are in need of services, please contact your child's school and ask to speak with a School Adviser or Social Worker. Additional resources are available through United Way of Porter County. Visit their website for a list of available community resources.
2022 Porter County Reference Guide (Nonprofit and Government Services)
Free & Reduced Meal Application
All children will receive free breakfast and lunch, regardless of their Free/Reduced Meal status. We are waiting on further guidance from the USDA so that qualifying families can continue to receive the Free/Reduced associated benefits to include Summer EBT cards, 21st Century Scholars, college application fee assistance, and more.
Social & Emotional Support Resources
Portage Backpack Program
The Portage BackPack Program provides weekend meals to over 160 children across all 11 Portage Township Schools. If you would like to inquire about how your child can receive these weekend meals, please call or email your child's School Adviser.
The BackPack Program is funded by community support as all BackPack Fund donations support feeding our children in Portage Township Schools.
Online donations can be completed at https://foodbanknwi.org/donate-online/ or mailed to Crisman Elementary School (Principal Scott Hufford, Attn: BackPack Program, 6161 Old Porter Road 46368). Please make sure to specify the Portage BackPack Fundraiser in either the memo section of your check or in the comments section of the online donation form. Your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
The BackPack Program is funded by community support as all BackPack Fund donations support feeding our children in Portage Township Schools.
Online donations can be completed at https://foodbanknwi.org/donate-online/ or mailed to Crisman Elementary School (Principal Scott Hufford, Attn: BackPack Program, 6161 Old Porter Road 46368). Please make sure to specify the Portage BackPack Fundraiser in either the memo section of your check or in the comments section of the online donation form. Your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness
United Way Housing Assistance Guide
Internet & Technology Assistance
Emergency Broadband Assistance Program
The Emergency Broadband Assistance Program provides discounts on internet and other technology needs to qualifying families. Families with students who receive free/reduced lunch benefits qualify for this program and can receive up to $50 off of your monthly broadband internet service. This program is sponsored by the USAC and the FCC. For more information and to apply, visit https://getemergencybroadband.org/.
WIC Information
Family Promise of Porter County - Housing assistance
Family Promise of Porter County's mission is to help families experiencing homelessness and low-income families achieve sustainable independence through a community-based response. Visit their website at http://familypromisepcin.org for more information.
Online Schools by the Indiana Department of Education