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Whereas, Recent reports from the U.S. Department of Education and the Pennsylvania Department of Education, note that in Pennsylvania, there was a 46% increase in the number of children and youth experiencing homelessness from the 2008-2009 school year to the 2009-2010 school year; and,
Whereas, in Allegheny County 1700 and youth were identified as homeless during the 2010-2011 school year; and,
Whereas, the Homeless Children's Education Fund is committed to ensuring that children who are homeless have access to the same educational opportunities and experiences as their peers; and,
Whereas, they raise public awareness of the very existence of children's homelessness and the resulting challenges to their academic success; and,
Whereas, they provide enhancements to and support of learning within transitional and bridge housing as well as emergency shelters; and,
Whereas, the Homeless Children's Educational Fund also offers multiple opportunities for adults, youth, and children to become advocates for families experiencing homelessness and the educational rights of the children affected; and,
Whereas, the inaugural Homeless Children's Awareness Week, set for October 15 - 23,
will feature a 5k run/walk; an Evening of Storytelling; a 15-minute Stand Up for Children on the lawn of Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall followed by a brief program, music, and refreshments inside the Hall; and the special fundraising event An Extraordinary Evening, a Latin-themed party featuring Sheldon Ingram of Channel 4 Action News as Master of Ceremonies, a salsa band, talented dancers, and Latin-fusion foods; and,
Whereas, all proceeds will benefit the educational programs of the Homeless Children's Education Fund.
Now, therefore be it RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby honor The Homeless Children's Education Fund on the occurrence of it first week-long awareness campaign;and,
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Be it further resolved, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare October 15-23 Homeless Children's Awareness Week in the City of Pittsburgh.