$400K state grant will help address clothing insecurity for children in poverty in Greater Philadelphia region
Rep. Napoleon Nelson September 30, 2026 | 10:40 AM
HARRISBURG, Sept. 30 — A new state grant of $400,000 will help address clothing insecurity and provide other basic needs for children living in poverty in the Greater Philadelphia area, according to state Reps. Jennifer O’Mara, chair of the House Democratic Caucus Southeast Delegation, and Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus.
The grant was awarded to Cradles to Crayons, which works with human services agencies to provide essentials such as coats, shoes, underwear, diapers and hygiene items. The organization provides more than 3.2 million basic items annually to children in need across the region.
“Cradles to Crayons is a wonderful organization that helps provide stability to families and helps children overcome the stigma of poverty,” O’Mara said. “Forty percent of families in our region live at or below the federal poverty level, so there is a definite need for this funding. I’m proud that the Southeast Delegation supported this funding, especially at a time when rising costs have resulted in an increased need for many families.”
“Feeling safe, warm and supported are essential for every single child, yet many still face the struggle of clothing insecurity,” Nelson said. “I want to thank Cradles to Crayons for their tireless efforts to be an added resource for families in my district and the region. Whether it’s backpacks they offer every fall or warm coats they provide in the winter, these are essential items that bring families comfort and stability when needed most. It is imperative that we continue to give them the resources they need to continue the great work that they are doing for our communities.”
The grant was awarded from a program at the state Department of Community and Economic Development.
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