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WHEREAS, the mission of the Homeless Children's Education Fund is to serve as a voice for homeless children in Allegheny County and to ensure that they are afforded equal access to the same educational opportunities and experiences as their peers; and
WHEREAS, it is estimated that every day between 500 and 600 children are receiving homeless services or housing in Allegheny County and the average age of the child is 7.8 years; and
WHEREAS, the Homeless Children's Education Fund (HCEF) will hold it's 10th annual Champions for Children Benefit on March 9, 2009; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gerald L. Zahorchak will receive the Champions for Children Award for his work in improving public education systems; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Joseph F. Lagana, the founder of HCEF, will receive the Linda A. Dickerson award for his ten years of service; and
WHEREAS, Bishop David A. Zubik will receive the Social Justice in Education Award for ensuring social just for children of all faiths.
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Council of the City of Pittsburgh commends the Homeless Children's Education Fund for ten years of helping children and thanks the 2009 honorees for their service; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby declares March 9, 2009, "Champions for Children Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.