The first day of school is filled with excitement, new backpacks, eager smiles, and children ready to learn. At KenCrest’s Early Learning Centers, this moment represents more than just a beginning. It’s the foundation for a lifetime of growth, curiosity, and opportunity.
Yet, for too many families in Pennsylvania, sending a child to school is a financial mountain too tall to climb. Quality early education, which is critical for future success, can cost nearly $15,000 per year in Philadelphia. Without support, some children are forced to miss out on these vital first steps in their educational journey.
Opening Doors Through EITC Scholarships
Since 2012, Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program has helped KenCrest bridge this gap. Through EITC funding, more than 700 students and their families have received scholarships to enroll in KenCrest’s Early Learning Centers, ensuring they start the year on an equal footing with their peers and have access to all that our ELCs provide.
Generous donors such as PNC, Lincoln Investment, AmerisourceBergen, Ray’s Appliances, and KeyBank have made these scholarships possible. Through the 2024-25 school year, EITC contributions have provided over $2,000,000 in scholarships, allowing more and more students to become lifelong learners thanks to a strong educational start during their foundational years.
“It made life simple. And it kept my son in school; if we didn’t get the scholarship, he probably wouldn’t be able to attend KenCrest, let alone any school,” shares a Lehigh Center parent. “Life is just too expensive, especially for a single mom.”
Beyond Tuition: Supporting Families Year-Round
EITC scholarships aren’t just about tuition, they also help cover before-and-after care, summer programs, and even meals for children. This holistic support means families can focus on stability while children receive the care and education they deserve.
“The scholarships helped cover before and after care, and I could work full-time without worrying about the added costs.” says an Adams Center parent. “Education is important, and having a KenCrest Early Learning Center right in our neighborhood made a difference for my children and me, too.”
How Businesses and Individuals Can Get Involved
Both businesses and individuals can play a role in funding these scholarships. Businesses authorized to operate in Pennsylvania may apply EITC credits if they are subject to certain state taxes. Meanwhile, individuals with a Pennsylvania tax liability of at least $3,500 can contribute through a Special Purpose Entity (SPE) with a simple one-page application and no rigid deadlines.
The start of the school year sets the tone for a child’s learning journey. Through EITC support, KenCrest can ensure that more children step into their classrooms with confidence, ready to learn, grow, and succeed. Together, we can give every child the strong start they deserve.
