Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness Through Education
Nearly 3,500 students in Allegheny County experience homelessness each year. At Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF), we believe education is the most powerful tool to break this cycle.
As the only nonprofit in the Pittsburgh region solely focused on the educational needs of students experiencing homelessness, HCEF provides compassionate advocacy, consistent support, and innovative programs that serve over 1,100 students annually.
Our Continuum of Programming Model is a wraparound, never-let-go approach—a long-term, interconnected system of support that accompanies students from early learning through high school and into workforce readiness. This longitudinal model ensures students don’t just survive homelessness—they rise beyond it.
From mobile classrooms and early childhood programs to after-school tutoring, teen leadership, and career development, our programs work in unison to address barriers, nurture potential, and fuel academic and personal success.
In partnership with schools, shelters, and community organizations, we walk alongside every student, every step of the way—no matter their housing status.
Creating Equity through Education