Learn more about new partnerships, community-wide events, pilot programs, and the success of our participants.

Episcopal Community Services has a brand new look and logo. And that’s just the beginning.

Having struggled in the past, Julia’s top priority is to make sure her kids make better choices than she did. 

During the school year, Helga’s grandkids attend the ECS OST program in Feltonville. “My day is never done,” Helga said. “If it wasn’t for the program and the school ... I’d go crazy. No breaks. Some days I say I wish I could get [rest].” But when you’re the beating heart of your family, rest is scarce.

One of their favorite things to give is their time – this year, through the Fill the Bus campaign, our annual back-to-school drive which gathers backpacks and classroom essentials for students in ECS program participants.

“A lot of it I did not understand, and I felt like I was lost,” he said. “I really didn’t know what to do. I had to grow up. 

Support in ECS often spans generations.

He had been working as a groundskeeper for a real estate owner, and in return for the work, they lived in one of the properties. 

TV’s aren’t playing in the background and no smartphones or tablets are in sight. Practically unheard of these days, families are sitting around the table, enjoying dinner together, and learning about what’s going on at their child’s school and afterschool program.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Ms. Janet moved to Feltonville 30 years ago and has worked for the Philadelphia School District for 24. 

“There’s a whole lot of things to do here. There’s lacrosse club, basketball club, dance club, football club … and we do all those things. I’m the best defense in football!” he exclaimed.