Homeless Children's Education Fund

Ms. Loren helped me with homework and taught me how to behave better in class. She also helped my family get things we needed, like school supplies and clothes. Thanks to her tutoring, my reading and math got a lot better, and my teachers say I’m doing great now. Without her and HCEF, I wouldn’t have gotten better. Can you help Ms. Loren and the people at HCEF work with more kids like me? Be sure to GIVE BIG on Tuesday December 3rd! #GivingTuesday #GiveBig #HCEF

??TAKE A MOMENT TO HEAR FROM OUR HCEF STUDENT, JOHN AND GIVE BIG ON 12.3.2024!?? My name is John. Six months ago, I was suddenly homeless. My only goal was to find a job to support my sick and disabled mom. But there was only one obstacle: I didn’t have a GED. That’s when I met Mr. Terrel with Homeless Children’s Education Fund. At first, he just gave me the essentials - like a laptop - and invited me to a Teen Night. But what he really gave me was something I hadn’t felt in a long time: HOPE. Through those nights, he and Miss Lucky helped me break out of me shell. Slowly, I started to dream again. I began to believe I was capable of more. So, when they invited me to join the Teen CEO program, I didn’t hesitate. This summer, through Teen CEO, I learned more than just financial literacy and workplace skills. I learned how to see a future for myself. I built confidence and overcame social anxiety. I learned how to advocate for myself and for a workplace that’s diverse and equitable. I created a resume, opened a bank account, and even gave my first elevator pitch. For the first time in my life, I felt ready. Ready to dream. Ready to achieve. Ready for college - something I never thought I’d say. The Teen CEO program didn’t just teach me skills; it gave me my future back. And I hope this program continues to help other students like me - students who just need someone to believe in them. Thank you for believing in us. Sincerely, John HCEF Student

?? Advocating for Change at the Capitol Rotunda! This week, the Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF), alongside incredible partners and advocates, gathered at the Capitol Rotunda to amplify the message of Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) Awareness Week. The day was filled with powerful moments, including moving speeches from state representatives and key guest speakers. One of the most inspiring voices came from our very own HCEF Student Scholar, Jada Guiste, who courageously shared her story. Jada’s impactful testimony highlights the urgent need for systemic change to support individuals experiencing homelessness. This day of advocacy shed light on current legislation and policies, while fostering collaboration among educators, youth-serving professionals, homelessness advocates, and liaisons. Together, we’re working to eliminate educational barriers and ensure every student receives the support they need to thrive. A special thank you to Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El for your unwavering commitment to students and your passion for serving the community. Your leadership inspires us all! Let’s keep pushing for progress and creating a brighter future for every child. ?? #AdvocacyMatters #ECYEH #HCEF #YouthEmpowerment #EndHomelessness

Last night was one for the books! I had the privilege of standing alongside Xavior Littlejohn, one of our inspiring Hope Through Learning Award (HTLA) scholars, as he spoke before the members of the Apartment Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh at their 50th anniversary Annual Meeting. Xavior is a powerhouse in every sense of the word — not only is he a three-time Homeless Children's Education Fund (HCEF) HTLA honoree, but he's also a founding member of the HCEF Collegiate Advocacy Committee, a junior at the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work, and an intern at Heyward House. Xavior’s journey from experiencing homelessness as a child to becoming a voice for change is nothing short of remarkable. We are incredibly proud of all that he has achieved and grateful for his dedication to advocating for others. Thank you to Blake Stanton Elisabeth Soose and all the members of AAMP for supporting our HTLA students. Let’s keep celebrating and supporting young leaders like Xavior who turn their challenges into platforms for change. #HomelessChildrensEducationFund #Advocacy #Leadership #HTLAScholar #SocialWork

humbled. ?? https://lnkd.in/ee3gZZEG

Education and housing are cornerstones of a thriving society. People experiencing homelessness aren’t defined by lack—they’re individuals simply without fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime housing, each with their own stories, strengths, and potential. Let’s reframe the narrative and advocate for everyone’s right to stability and opportunity.

?? WOW—We did it! ?? A HUGE shoutout to everyone who rallied with us this month—whether you donated, signed up to volunteer, or showed up to our events, you made an impact! Special thanks to our amazing Steering Committee, led by Ty A. , and our incredible Staff Fundraising Team, led by LaMeka-LeShe Dolby and Terrel Williams M.Ed , who poured their heart and soul into every detail. ?? Thanks to you all, we hit our goal of $100K! ?? A big thank you to Dollar Bank for believing in our mission and hosting the celebration. This victory reminds us why we keep pushing forward—because together, we’re changing lives and building brighter futures for every student we serve. Let’s keep the momentum going! ??? #Grateful #Community #Impact

?? Meet Briana Beach, one of our inspiring Hope Through Learning Awards recipients! ?? Briana is thriving in Carlow University's Community Scholars program, making us incredibly proud. Her journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students have support and opportunity. It’s your commitment to HCEF that empowers students like Briana to realize their potential and pursue higher education. Thank you for making a difference! #HCEF #HopeThroughLearning #StudentSuccess?#HCEF strong!

Your leadership is an example of true inspiration. Your positive impact resonates not only within our organization but throughout our city. Congratulations on being named one of the Pittsburgh Business Times 2024 C-Suite Award winners! Your light shines bright, and we’re honored to celebrate this achievement with you. ?? #Leadership #Inspiration #CSuiteAwards #Pittsburgh

Homelessness and housing are important issues plaguing the election this year. People experiencing homelessness will be severely impacted, and they deserve a voice in the process. Make your way to the polls today. Polls close at 8PM. Cast your vote to have your voice heard. ??? #ElectionDay