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Who We Are

Vision

PCEH envisions a Philadelphia where every street corner echoes with stories of hope, not despair.

Our dream is a city where every individual has a roof overhead, a community that supports them, and opportunities that await them. By championing innovative solutions and fostering strong partnerships, we’re striving to turn this vision into a lived reality for all. Together, we’re building a Philadelphia where no one is left out in the cold, and everyone has a place to belong. Join our journey towards a city united in care and purpose.

Make An Impact

Donate today to provide shelter, essential supplies and outreach to Philadelphia’s most vulnerable residents. Your gift will play a crucial role in directly funding safe and dignified shelter for people without a home. All donations are 100% tax deductible and spent 100% on solutions – maximizing the value of your generosity.

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Mission

PCEH is dedicated to funding bold, measurable, and replicable solutions to end homelessness in Philadelphia.

Our unique approach focuses on backing innovative projects that can be proven, scaled and adopted widely. By channeling resources and expertise, we aim to create a lasting impact, ensuring that every Philadelphian has the security of a home. Together, we’re not just addressing the symptoms; we’re targeting the root causes to build a brighter future for our city.

History

Since our inception in 1982, The Philadelphia Committee to END Homelessness (PCEH) has been a beacon of hope for the city’s homeless population.

Initially focused on providing intake and counseling services for men experiencing homelessness, we quickly expanded our reach, championing the Housing First approach. This initiative has since aided numerous families, positively impacting over 400 children by helping them find stable and sustainable housing. As the challenges of poverty, homelessness, addiction, and violence have evolved over the years, we have recognized the need for new strategies. Today, while honoring our history, we are committed to funding innovative approaches to address the complex issue of homelessness in Philadelphia.

Our People

Steve Shapiro

Board President

Steve has been involved with PCEH for more than 30 years, first as a street outreach volunteer and currently as the Board President. He is the founder and president of MLC, Inc., a General Contracting company, and he works and lives in Philadelphia – the city he loves. Throughout the years it has been and continues to be Steve’s desire to do all that he can to eliminate the heartbreaking societal ill of homelessness.

Jill Margraff

Board Secretary

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Jill is the proud business owner of Margraffix, an advertising, marketing and web design firm. Her passion for the city is evident in her commitment to aiding those in need of shelter. For years, she has championed the cause of ensuring everyone has access to housing, clothing, and food. Jill looks forward to collaborating with organizations that resonate with her vision for a compassionate Philadelphia.

Eric van der Vlugt

Board Vice President

Eric is a Dutch/American contemporary realist painter and exhibits regularly in the U.S. and The Netherlands. He has taught at MICA, PCA and West Chester University, and founded Articus Advertising, an advertising and marketing agency  in Philadelphia. Eric has been a member of the PCEH board for 31 years, acting on his belief that poverty and homelessness in the wealthiest nation on earth are not only unjust, but are entirely solvable.

Andrea Sasso

Board Member

Andrea currently works as a trial attorney alongside fellow board member J.B. Dilsheimer at Stampone O’Brien Dilsheimer Law. J.B. introduced Andrea to PCEH after he observed Andrea’s passionate advocacy for her clients whom she treats like family. PCEH allows Andrea to right injustices for families outside of the courtroom and ensure those struggling can get access to the resources they need.

 

J.B. Dilsheimer

Board Member

J.B. is a trial lawyer and named partner at Stampone O’Brien Dilsheimer Law. Just as his chosen profession allows him to help those who need it most, so too does PCEH allow him to give back and help those most in need. This, like his profession, is truly a labor of love.

Join Us

Being a part of the PCEH Board of Directors is not just a position —it’s a commitment to making a transformative impact in Philadelphia.

As a board member, you’ll play a pivotal role in selecting the best projects, managing funds, and tracking the progress of our efforts to address homelessness. You’ll collaborate with a team of passionate individuals, bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives. If you’re eager to make a tangible difference, consider joining our dynamic board.

Complete the form below, and a member of our team will be in touch soon!


Partners

We deeply appreciate our partners for their unwavering support and collaboration in our mission to end homelessness in Philadelphia.

Charitable Aid Foundation America, Partner

Bright Funds, Partner

The Blackbaud Giving Fund, Partner

Amazon smile, Partner

Want to help?

Join us in our mission to reshape Philadelphia’s future. By partnering with PCEH, you’ll be at the forefront of a transformative movement to end homelessness in our city. Together, we can amplify our impact and create lasting change.

Be Part of the Solution: Subscribe Now!

Join our email list and be the first to hear about our latest projects, success stories, and ways you can help. Let’s unite in our shared vision for a better Philadelphia. Sign up and stay engaged!

4,489

people experience homelessness in Philadelphia*

784

children under 18 experience homelessness in Philadelphia*

366

youth ages 18-24 experience homelessness in Philadelphia*

18%

of the city’s homeless population is unsheltered*

*Source: City of Philadelphia Office of Homeless Services