Homeless Children’s Education Fund

The Homeless Children’s Education Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1999 to support the educational needs of children experiencing homelessness in Allegheny County. Over the years, the Fund’s role in the community has expanded to meet these needs.

There are several ways to get involved:

Become a Mentor

You can help with homework, play games and be an all-around good role model for young people.

Among the initiatives:

• Building Blocks After-School Program: Assist our instructors working with children grades K-5 in housing support shelters. Our volunteers help the kids with homework, reading, and writing activities. The time commitment is 2-3 hours, one day per week, Mon-Fri, 3 – 6 p.m. After School volunteers must be able to commit at least 3 months to the program.
• Summer Program: Keep kids motivated and learning through reading, educational games, art, field trips, journaling, and more. The time commitment is July-August, Mon- Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
• Teen Reachout Program: Work with high school students on college and career prep, subject tutoring, and mentoring. We match each volunteer with a single high school student, with whom they will meet for individual tutor sessions once per week for one hour. Scheduling is based on student needs and generally takes place between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and can be done virtually.

Raise Awareness

Be a part of the outreach team to build awareness of these programs throughout the community. You can also help raise awareness on college campuses.

Support Our Events

You can become a team member to help plan and hold public events. Donate an auction basket for the annual Champions for Children Gala or help run the Fund’s water station in Highland Park for the annual Pittsburgh Marathon in May.