Winnie’s Wagon, a bright blue van, is the adorable mobile classroom of the Homeless Children’s Education Fund in Pittsburgh.
“We serve children in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County public schools ages kindergarten through 24,” said Alize Strickland, HCEF family coordinator.
There is also a youth program for high school students and young adults. Children can return to the program at any time if needed. The van and its four teachers provide tutoring and schooling to children and youth in unstable housing situations.
The mobile van participated in the eighth annual August Wilson Birthday Celebration Block Party held in the Hill District on April 27. Wilson was an author and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright who grew up in the Hill District. The free family event included food trucks, live music, 181 vendors, food trucks, children’s activities, book readings and exhibit booths. The Carnegie Science Center, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and Young Dreamer’s Bookstore, among others, had booths with various activities for children.
The Homeless Children’s Education Fund was founded by Joe Lagana. The organization recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a sold-out gala event, “Champions for Children Silver Jubilee,” on June 1st.
“We meet the children where they are. The private tutors go to the homes, motels, libraries and community centers to help students with academic needs that can cause interruptions in their education due to relocation,” Strickland said.
Winnie’s Wagon has 25 to 30 children and four teachers. It is a year-round shelter program. The teachers and students meet once a week for an hour of individual instruction. The wagon was designed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, according to Strickland.
The van works with children on the campuses of Light of Light, Carnegie Libraries of Pittsburgh, and Community College of Allegheny County. It also travels to Mon View Heights and Northview Heights. The cheerful classroom inside the van has seats and a table. The mobile program provides books, STEAM learning games, school supplies, crayons, Play Doh, and school bags. Kindle tablets with headphones are also available to students. They also offer affirmations and inspirational quotes, and snacks.
“It’s beautiful,” said mother Malia Sanu.
“I liked the starter books,” said parent Tajah Williams.
“We liked the dominoes and the globe video,” said 10-year-old Amana Fields, accompanied by her 7-year-old sister Loyal Fields, after touring the van.
Leap Frog – Brings Story Books to Life is a computer-based learning tool. The student selects a country from a light blue globe depicting different countries from around the world.
“The computer tells you about countries, oceans and states,” said Strickland. “The video tells you about the people, cultures and animals and has a quiz at the end.”
To donate to the Homeless Children’s Education Fund or to become a volunteer tutor, call Brian McKnight, Director of the Homeless Children’s Educator Fund, at 412-562-0154.
Photo:
Alize Strickland, family coordinator for HCEF, sits in the mobile van.
Photo by Colette Funches
