A staggering 2.5 million children are now homeless each year in America. This historic high represents one in every 30 children in the United States.

Homeless children often experience separation from one or both parents; increased risk of placement in foster care.

Of the 1.6 million homeless children in the U.S., approximately 650,000 (42%) are under age six.

Homeless students are 2 times as likely as their peers to score poorly on standardized tests in math and reading.

Homeless children are 3 times more likely to be placed into special education programs.

Children experiencing homelessness are 4 times more likely to drop out of school.

Kids who deal with homelessness are 8 to 9 times more likely to repeat a grade than their peers.

Children who experience homelessness are four times more likely to experience developmental delays.

More than 30% of children who have been served by a homeless housing program have involvement with child protective services.

Upcoming Events

Stand Up Demonstration and Press Conference

Stand with us in solidarity to support the 2,836 students experiencing homelessness in Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh. After a few moments of silence, HCEF’s Executive Director Ardana Jefferson will host a press conference that includes Mayor Ed Gainey, County Councilman DeWitt Walton and other leaders sharing remarks about ongoing efforts to lift all students experiencing homelessness.

Oct 4 | 9:30 am
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Pittsburgh Child Guidance Foundation's mission is to improve the emotional health and well-being of children and youth living in Allegheny County by providing grants and collaborating with public and private organizations to implement innovative policies, practices and programs.

Dear Neighbors,

While we are all living in a time of great uncertainty, please know that many resources are available to aid those in need. Even from a distance, we are in this together. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Below are links to accurate information about organizations providing assistance to lessen your burden.

Stay well and stay strong.

Pam Golden

Executive Director

Our Motivation

The Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACE Study) is a research study conducted by Kaiser Permanente health maintenance organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).[1] Participants were recruited to the study between 1995 and 1997 and have been in long-term follow-up for health outcomes. The study has demonstrated an association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and health and social problems in adulthood. Read More

Mechanism by Which Adverse Childhood Experiences Influence Health and Well-being Throughout the Lifespan

Big Burgh App

PCGF supports development of new app developed to link homeless people to services such as food or shelter.