Heritage 4 Kids Early Learning Center Receives $180,000 Capital Improvement Grant

Heritage Community Initiatives announced recently its receipt of a $180,000 grant from the Richard King Mellon Foundation for capital improvements to the Heritage 4 Kids Early Learning Center and Heritage Out of School Time Programs. 

This grant will go towards creating a cleaner, safer and higher functioning learning environment for the children at both programs. 

In 1998, the Heritage 4 Kids Early Learning Center opened with a vision to prepare underserved children for success in school life.  The center accepts students regardless of family income level, is licensed by the Department of Public Welfare, is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and rated Star 3 with Keystone STARS Program.   

The HOST program provides students in grades K-8 with a balanced of academic support and enrichment activities. The program operates out of Good Shepherd Catholic School and is rated Star 4 by the Keystone STARS Program. Children enrolled in HOST are provided with before and after school care during the academic year, and a summer camp program when school is not in session.

Improving both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the 4 Kids Early Learning Center’s building has been a priority since Heritage gained ownership through the donation of the facility from UPMC Braddock in 2010.  The improvements through this grant include projects such as building a ramp to replace the staircase leading to the playground, continuing wooden flooring throughout the building, a security system, a sprinkler system and new restroom equipment. In addition, this grant will provide portable sinks for three classrooms at the HOST program.

With these improvements, Heritage 4 Kids Early Learning Center and HOST will continue to grow as two of the area’s most effective learning centers.  As a grant recipient, Heritage Community Initiatives extends their thanks to the Richard King Mellon Foundation and looks forward to the future of both the Heritage 4 Kids Early Learning Center and HOST program and the children we serve. 

Heritage Community Initiatives provides support for families that live in Braddock and the Mon Valley region of Allegheny County through services in education, transportation and community outreach.  As we strengthen individuals and families, we build healthier communities and provide resources for sustainability.