Funding Opportunities

We are a private, non-profit agency headquartered in Erie, with a satellite office in Crawford County. Our programs are licensed annually by the Department of Public Welfare. Funding sources include Erie County Mental Health/Mental Retardation and other county MH/MR programs, and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Office of Mental Retardation. Private donations, grants and fund-raising proceeds are also necessary to supplement the agency's operating budget.

Donation Opportunities

Annual Appeal

  • Since its founding in 1912 as Erie Infants Home and Hospital, EHCA has always looked for ways to improve the lives of those it serves. They truly understand that it means more than providing food, clothing, shelter and medical support; it means doing whatever is necessary to assist those it supports to live the most fulfilling lives possible.
  • The 2007-08 Annual Appeal will provide outside awnings for many of the group homes that will allow residents and guests to enjoy outside activities, which you and I might take for granted, such as enjoying the flowers and trees and feeling the summertime breezes across their face. Due to many of the residents' sensitivity to the sun, something as simple as an awning to provide protection from the sun over a patio or deck at a group home makes outdoor living that much more enjoyable.
  • A wheelchair ramp at one of the group homes is another example of how EHCA seeks to improve the quality of life. Currently the residents of the home do not use wheelchairs, but a ramp would allow them to navigate the steps more easily and alleviate growing concerns of falling. A ramp would also allow their friends who currently use wheelchairs to visit the group home more often.

Funds

Technology Fund
This fund will enable EHCA to keep pace with the rapid changes in communication, data collection and reporting requirements
Recreation/Leisure Fund
This fund is a more encompassing version of the former "summer camp fund." The fund permits many of our individuals to participate in unique leisure or recreational opportunities.
Endownment Fund
This fund is "future building." Your gift will be invested to help ensure the future of EHCA services.
Special Needs Fund
This fund is used for the needs of our children and adults that are not covered by our operating budget such as medical equipment, adaptive equipment, communication devices, etc.
Capital Improvements Fund
This fund allows for building maintenance/renovations; group home vans, other agency vehicles and equipment repair and replacement; as well as other major needs.
Project First Step Fund
This is a program to aid families in preventing disabilities in their children and helping them care for infants (0 to 3 years of age) with disabilities. Project First Step focuses on children who are medically fragile and whose parents have a disability.

Project First Step Endowment Fund

This fund will help ensure the future of Project First Step.

For more information about donation or funding opportunities, contact James A. Steber, Director of Planned Giving and Community Support, at (814) 454-1534.

Wish List

The agency wish list is designed for people who would like to help, but are not sure how their resources can best fit our needs and current situations. New items and used items in GOOD condition are appreciated. If you are interested in possibly donating items to our wish list, or have questions, please contact Bridget Hurt , Communications Specialist, at (814) 454-1534.