Homeless Children’s Education Fund Seeks to Raise Awareness Through Weeklong Events
Beginning on October 14th, the Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF) will host a week long series of events to recognize the second annual Homeless Children’s Awareness Week. HCEF coordinates this week in an effort to educate Pennsylvania residents about the challenges and effects of homelessness on the education of children and youth. HCEF encourages participation in their scheduled events but also strives for leaders to host events in their own communities. This year, Homeless Children’s Awareness Week has garnered proclamations by the state of Pennsylvania and the City of Pittsburgh.
The following events are scheduled throughout the week of October 14th: HCEF Cabinet of Congregations Events Faith Congregations in Allegheny County, various locations Sunday, October 14th at various times An Evening of Storytelling ($5.00 per person) James Street Gastropub & Speakeasy Monday, October 15th at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) Evening of Appreciation (Invite only) Rivers Club Wednesday, October 17th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. An Art Installation: Stand Up for Homeless Children Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall Thursday, October 18th at 5 p.m. Stand Up for Homeless Children McIntyre School, North Hills Friday, October 19th Stand Up & Run for Homeless Children 5K Run/Walk North Park Saturday, October 20th at 8:30 a.m. HCEF Cabinet of Congregations Events Faith Congregations in Allegheny County, various locations Saturday, October 20th at various times Creativity when planning individual events is always encouraged, but HCEF suggests options such as art installations, walk/run events, supply drives, prayer walls, storytelling, benefit concerts, movie nights or community service days. Homeless Children’s Education Fund Seeks to Raise Awareness Through Weeklong Events The definition of homelessness, according to the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, refers to children who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence. Homeless Children’s Awareness Week is designed to give a voice to those children who are affected by homelessness, especially as it relates to the areas of physical health, academic success and emotional and behavioral development. The stress of homelessness is even greater for children experiencing repeated or chronic homelessness. HCEF’s goal is to ensure that these children and their families are aware that they are entitled to various educational rights under the Act and to encourage others to make an impact on the lives of these children. Homeless Children’s Awareness Week is sponsored this year by Hundred Acres Manor Haunted House, Fragasso Financial Advisors, Trib Total Media, Jennmar, Vitamin Water, Road ID and Active.com, as well as many other local groups and supporters. For more information on the week and schedule of events or to add your own event to the week’s calendar, visithcaw2012.tumblr.com. Follow the action at facebook.com/homelesseducation and twitter.com/homelessfund.com(@homelessfund) using #HCAW2012. About HCEF Since 1999, the Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, has been dedicated to providing advocacy, community engagement, and direct service programs that support the education