HCEF website – http://www.homelessfund.org/, phone (412) 562-0154
On April 5, 2012, HCEF tried something new.
Through monthly meetings, HCEF’s Cabinet of Congregations formed ideas for a third-grade curriculum to effectively yet gently teach children about homelessness. The curriculum was developed by an HCEF afterschool instructor and professional educator, using Dr. Ralph da Costa Nunez’s book, Voyage to Shelter Cove. Students at Sewickley Academy helped test a shortened version of the curriculum during their first-ever Day of Service on April 5.
In the morning, HCEF trained the upper school students to present the adapted version of the curriculum to grades pre-K through fifth. After lunch, the students and teachers viewed a reading of Voyage to Shelter Cove as a group, and then divided into their individual classrooms with their upper school mentors to discuss the story. The older grades were able to construct poems using a prompt designed to help them relate to a specific character’s thoughts and feelings. Many of them also participated in a “backpack activity” that encouraged them to think about what valuables they would take with them if they had to leave home in 10 minutes. The upper grades successfully served as guides in all activities.
For the first time ever, HCEF’s art installation, known as “Stand Up for Homeless Children,” was performed by children, for children. Over 350 students and faculty at Sewickley Academy ended their Day of Service with the art installation, with a spectrum of pre-K kids to adults in participation. Even the youngest students were able to grasp an understanding of the purpose of the “Stand Up,” which is to draw attention to the number of children experiencing homelessness in Allegheny County. “We did it for the kids who don’t have homes,” one little girl responded.
The event was a preview of what is possible with the implementation of the new curriculum and expansion of the art installation, of what more can be done for homeless children through such awareness-raisers as these. The children at Sewickley may grow up and recall this day and its impact, and it’s the children who are the future decision-makers. Even now, young as they are, they can be part of a brave effort to help those in need.