The number of children being reported as homeless in Southern Illinois is down from last year.

Last year, 3,906 students were reported as homeless, now that number stands at 2,610. Officials say the drop is due to schools improving how they identify homeless students.

Under the McKinney-Vento Act of 1987, homeless students are identified as being without a fixed, adequate nighttime residence. It can also include students waiting to be placed under foster care.

Federal grants help school districts provide assistance to homeless students. About $216,000 was distributed within Southern IL.

Seven counties are reported as having poverty levels higher than the state average of 14.1%. Those include Alexander County, at nearly 32%, Hardin County at nearly 24%, and Union County at nearly 20%.