English Language Learners
The Susquehanna Township School District’s Department of English Language Development (ELD) [formerly known as English as a Second Language or ESL] provides eligible students that are linguistically and culturally diverse with English language instruction and ensures compliance with state and federal laws and regulations. A student's English language proficiency and academic background, are taken into consideration in order to deliver appropriate English instruction as well as content support at their level.
Our goal for English Learners (ELs) is to become independent learners in a school environment. We help ELs gain proficiency in the English language by focusing on the development of academic skills in the domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. We also strive to help ELs and their families successfully adapt to our district and culture while maintaining and valuing their own culture.
Enrollment
The population of ELs varies throughout the year. Our students represent many different cultures and their native languages include: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bambara, Bulgarian, Burmese, Cham, Chinese, Croatian, Filipino, French, German, Greek, Gujarati, Haitian Creole, Hausa, Hindi, Hungarian, Japanese, Karen, Kinyarwanda, Lingala, Mandinka, Nepalese, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog, Tamazight, Telugu, Thai, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and Yoruba.
Eligibility for the ELD Program
Upon entry into the Susquehanna Township School District, families are required to complete a Home Language Survey. If a language other than English is noted, a district screener will contact the family and prior school district for additional information. If necessary, the student will complete the W-APT (Kindergarten) or WIDA Screener (grades 1 - 12) English language proficiency assessment to determine his or her level of English proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Parents will be notified of placement within thirty days if enrolled at the beginning of the school year, or within fourteen days if enrolled during the school year.
Direct Instruction and Support
The ELD department provides instruction at two levels: direct instruction and support. Additionally, direct instruction students can receive support in other content classes such as ELA, mathematics, science, and social studies. Support students receive support in all content areas as necessary. This support can be push-in, pull-out, tutoring, or consultative.
ELL Documents
- Language Instruction Educational Program for English Learners (LIEP)
- Level of Learners
- ELD Assessments
- Parent Resources
- Teacher Resources
- Community Resources
Language Instruction Educational Program for English Learners (LIEP)
22 PA. Code §4.26
Every school district shall provide a program for each student whose dominant language is not English for the purpose of facilitating the student's achievement of English proficiency and the academic standards under § 4.12 (relating to academic standards). Programs under this section shall include appropriate bilingual-bicultural or English as a second language (ESL) instruction.
BEC for Educating English Learners (EL) - 2017
ELs must have equitable access to academic content for all courses in which they are enrolled. Regardless of the program model(s) employed, the LIEP must, at a minimum:
-
be aligned to state academic content standards for the appropriate grade level of the ELs;
-
include ELD instruction delivered by properly certified teachers who hold an ESL program specialist certificate or who are working in conjunction with ESL certified teachers;
-
incorporate the use of the PA ELDS;
-
provide equitable access to content for ELs at all language proficiency levels by providing research-based bilingual or sheltered instruction with fidelity; and
-
not limit the enrollment of ELs in any course or academic program for which they would otherwise be eligible.
The foregoing minimum requirements must be incorporated into the entirety of the student's daily instructional time.
This document describes how Susquehanna Township School District meets these requirements.
LIEP Breakdown
- Section 1: District Overview
- Section 2: Approach and Program Goals
- Section 3: Identification of Potential EL Students
- Section 4: Program of Service
- Section 5: Staffing and Resources
- Section 6: Reclassification
Section 1: District Overview
District Overview
Susquehanna Township School District is comprised of 2 elementary schools, 1 middle school and 1 high school. The district demographics are distributed among several tables below. English learners (ELs) represent 7% of the total student population.
Table 1. Student Ethnicity
Student Ethnicity |
Total Number |
% of total population |
Notes |
American Indian/Alaskan Native |
7 |
.25% |
|
Asian/Pacific Islander |
447 |
15.78% |
|
Black |
1,031 |
36.39% |
|
Hispanic |
429 |
15.14% |
|
White |
609 |
21.50% |
|
Multiracial |
300 |
10.59% |
|
Declined to respond |
|
|
|
Native Hawaiian |
10 |
.35% |
|
District Total |
2,833 |
|
|
Table 2. EL Distribution
Distribution of students qualifying for ELD services; current, reclassified and parent refusal currently enrolled in Susquehanna Township School District.
Description |
# of Students |
% EL Population |
Notes |
Current ELs |
209 |
.72% |
|
Dually Identified EL/Sped |
21 |
.10% |
|
Specific Learning Disability |
5 |
.02% |
|
Communication Disorder |
1 |
.004% |
Speech or language |
Other Health Impairment |
1 |
.004% |
|
Autism Spectrum Disorder |
4 |
.02% |
|
Hearing Impaired |
0 |
0% |
|
Emotionally Disturbed |
0 |
0% |
|
EL/504 Plan |
0 |
0% |
|
Reclassified on Monitor Status |
40 |
.14% |
|
Reentered ELD |
|
|
|
Parent Refusal |
0 |
0% |
|
Former ELs-completed monitoring |
42 |
.14% |
|
Section 2: Approach and Program Goals
Susquehanna Township School District ELD Educational Approach and Program Goals
Educational Approach
English learners (ELs) in STSD receive English acquisition instruction using the mixed classes with English only support or EL specific English only model depending upon their data evidenced need.
STSD will:
-
Provide ELD instruction with a certified ESL Program Specialist
-
Provide ELD instruction that is commensurate with the data defined need of the EL and the demand of the content instruction
-
Provide training and materials to ensure that appropriate strategies and language scaffolds are used during the EL’s content instruction. These strategies and scaffolds will be based upon student need and could include: graphic organizers, bilingual glossary or dictionary, sentence and paragraph frames, visuals, word bank, pre-taught vocabulary, background knowledge preparation, use of repetition and modelling and structured group work.
-
Provide a method for collaboration between the ESL teacher and the content teacher to plan language support strategies, discuss progress and plan content assessment for the EL
-
Coordinate co-teaching between the ESL and content teacher, when appropriate
Program Goals
The goal of our LIEP is for our ELs to meet or exceed their individual language proficiency growth trajectory as established annually by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Information about the specific goals can be found in the PA State ESSA Plan, pages 13-16: http://www.education.pa.gov/K-12/ESSA/Pages/Consolidated-State-Plan.aspx
Susquehanna Township School District uses several resources to progress monitor ELs in language acquisition. These measures are used for all levels of language proficiency and may vary based upon the language domain being assessed.
- WIDA ACCESS for ELs 2.0
- WIDA MODEL
- WIDA Speaking Rubric
- WIDA Writing Rubric
- Data reports from digital learning resources (Imagine Learning, iReady, etc.)
- Assessments that accompany our language acquisition textbooks
Section 3: Identification of Potential EL Students
Identification of Potential EL Students
Upon enrollment in the Susquehanna Township School District (STSD), a Home Language Survey (HLS) is completed for every student. If a response on the HLS indicates a primary language other than English, the ELD teacher conducts an interview of the family, using and interpreter if necessary, to determine with the non-English language use is incidental or pervasive.
A complete review of previous school records is conducted, including any special education records.
If the student meets the PDE criteria set forth in the PDE English Learner Identification Procedure, Grades K-12, then the student is given the ELD program placement assessment, WIDA Screener or WIDA MODEL.
STSD follows all the PDE English Learner Identification Procedure Grades K-12 guidance.
STSD trains all staff conducting the placement procedures.
Screening procedures, parent contact and appropriate student placement will be completed within the first 30 days of school at the beginning of the school year and within two weeks if enrollment occurs during the school year. Special circumstances (interpretation needs, mobility issues, etc.) are addressed in collaboration with school personnel.
Susquehanna Township School District follows the identification guidance provided by PDE. This information can be found https://www.education.pa.gov/Teachers%20-%20Administrators/Curriculum/English%20As%20A%20Second%20Language/Pages/Identification-Placement-Exit.aspx#.Vbt7YmXD-Uk
Kindergarten English Learner (EL) Identification and Placement Process Flowchart
English Learner (EL) Identification Procedure Flowchart
Section 4: Program of Service
Program of Service for English Learners
Instruction is provided in English only and adapted to the student’s English proficiency level—English language skills and academic content are the focus of instruction. ELs and non-Els are in the same classroom for content instruction. English language support is provided by all teachers either inside or outside of the regular classroom. Technology may be used in the delivery of instruction.
At the elementary school, the principal, ESL teacher and classroom teacher work to develop a schedule that minimizes conflict and affords opportunities for student learning and English language acquisition in all subject areas.
For the middle school, ELs are afforded choices in their elective course offerings. Counselors review schedules with students to ensure that appropriate courses are in place.
For the high school, ELs’ placement into acquisition classes is based on their Screener or ACCESS scores.
Parents have the option to refuse ELD services for their student. This must be an informed and voluntary decision by the parent. The services being refused include: pull-out classes for ELD instruction, ELD tutoring either during or after the school day or other supplemental resources designed only for English learners. This does not include a class composed of ELs and non-ELs where ELD is supported through content instruction.
Susquehanna Township School District will:
-
Inform parents within 30 days of the beginning of the school year or 14 calendar days within the school year of their child's EL identified status in the parents' preferred language within 30 days of the beginning of the school year or 14 calendar days within the school year of their child's EL identified status in the parents' preferred language.
-
Describe in sufficient detail to the parents the ELD program recommended for their child and the advantages to their child in terms of English language acquisition and academic success.
-
Inform parents of their right to decline ELD programs or services in whole or in part, and supply the parents with the state required ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Parental Waiver Form.
-
Ensure that parents do not opt their children out of any ELD programs or services based on schedule conflicts with other programs (such as special education programs); insufficient space in the available ELD programs; or insufficient offerings within the ELD program.
-
Annually test opt-out ELs with the state required WIDA ACCESS for ELs 2.0 test until the student attains English proficiency by meeting the state exit criteria and is reclassified non-EL status.
-
Maintain the student's EL status on all reporting even though the student's parents declined services.
-
Provide ELD instruction within the general education content area instruction to meet the needs of the opt-out EL students.
-
Notify parents if their child is struggling in general education classes and recommend the ELD program and services again.
-
Present the ELD Program Inclusion Form to parents who wish to opt their child back into the school's ELD programs and services.
The details of this are included in the guidance document provided by PDE and can be found here:
English Language Development Instruction:
School |
Grade Level(s) |
Person Responsible |
Program Resource(s) |
Description |
Sara Lindemuth/Anna Carter Primary School K-2
Thomas W. Holtzman, Jr Elementary 3-5 |
K-5th |
ESL certified teacher and paraprofessional |
|
ELs are pulled out for 30 minutes of language acquisition instruction. OR ESL teacher pushes in to provide language instruction during core content instruction. |
Susquehanna Township Middle School |
6th - 8th |
ESL certified teacher |
Raz-kids + EL Ed. Flipgrid.com
Peardeck.com
Nearpod.com
Newsela.com
ESLlab.com
Englishforeveryone.org
Grammar Explorer 1,2,3
Edge: Reading, writing, and language |
ELD class period within the master schedule (elective credit). |
Susquehanna Township High School |
9th – 12th |
ESL certified teacher |
ELD class period within the master schedule (humanities credit); extra support for low ELs (elective credit). Advanced ELs are immersed with frequent check-ins with ELD teacher. Sheltered English courses for low to intermediate ELs as of 2021-22. |
Grading of ELs:
ELs must be graded using the same grading system as all other students. The ESL and regular education teacher should collaboratively determine grades for each EL. Content area instruction is aligned to the standards with modification/accommodations provided to match the language proficiency of the EL. These should be noted in a students’ cumulative folder.
For ELD courses or instructional periods taught by a licensed ESL teacher in an all-EL setting, any grading system that meaningfully conveys information about progress and/or achievement may be used.
EL parents are notified annually of their student’s progress in language proficiency by means of the Parent Notification letter sent before the end of September.
Section 5: Staffing and Resources
Staffing and Resources
ELD Program Staff
The ELD Program Staff includes the ESL Supervisor, ESL teachers and paraprofessionals. ESL teachers are certified as per the Pennsylvania state guidelines. District hiring practices ensure that new personnel are trained in delivering ELD instruction. Other tasks include guiding student opportunities to practice, review and apply prior learning.
Resources
Professional Development:
Our district administrators, teachers and paraprofessionals have participated trainings for the specific purpose of supporting our ELs.
Interpretation and Translation:
Susquehanna Township School District has a contract with Language Line to provide oral interpretation as necessary. We also provide in-person interpreters for parent conferences and IEP meetings.
We use TransACT, the repository of translated standardized documents, to provide written communications in the preferred language of our EL families.
EL Program Resources:
Elementary
Learning A-Z: EL Edition:
The ELL Edition provides a number of research-based resources and teaching strategies specifically designed for helping English language learners achieve success with social and academic English. The resources are organized in content area topics at varying grade ranges and includes integrated grammar and vocabulary support. The ELL Edition provides content-based and thematic-based resources that develop English speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills. It develops and introduces academic and social vocabulary. It Correlates instruction to various ELL curriculum standards. ELL Edition also tracks progress with grade-appropriate assessments.
Imagine Learning Language and Literacy:
Imagine Language & Literacy is an adaptive software program that accelerates reading and language proficiency for students in grades PreK–6. Designed to supplement core literacy instruction, Imagine Language & Literacy provides instruction and practice in all four domains of literacy—reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Through playing games and completing short lessons, students improve foundational skills, and teachers and administrators receive reports on student progress. Imagine Learning aligns to Common Core standards, with a specific focus on Foundational Skills, Literature and Language.
ESL Kidstuff: Resources for English teachers including printable lesson plans, flashcards, worksheets, songs, classroom graded readers, games, crafts, and more.
Wonders Houghton Mifflin EL Resources: Leveled readers, alternate vocabulary choices, and modified assessments.
Picture and/or Online Dictionaries: Printed or online dictionaries are used to build vocabulary and background knowledge. Students are also given the option to use translated dictionaries when appropriate or needed.
Leveled Readers: Leveled readers from the school’s book room or ESL classroom are used to build background knowledge, strengthen vocabulary, promote discussion, and reinforce classroom concepts.
High School:
Online Resources:
Raz-kids and EL Edition: vocabulary development and fictional and non-fiction reading
Flipgrid.com: additional speaking practice
Peardeck.com & nearpod.com: interactive PowerPoints
Newsela.com: supplemental non-fiction reading
ESLlab.com: listening practice
Englishforeveryone.org: additional warm-ups and grammar practice
Grammar Textbooks:
Mackey, Daphne. Grammar Explorer: 1. National Geographic Learning, 2015.
Carne, Paul. Grammar Explorer 2. National Geographic Learning, 2015.
Cooper, Amy, et al. Grammar Explorer 3. National Geographic Learning, a Part of Cengage Learning, 2015.
Reading Textbooks:
Moore, David W., et al. Hampton-Brown Edge: Reading, Writing & Language. National Geographic Learning, Cengage Learning, 2014.
Resource Review:
Our district ELD team will conduct an annual review to determine the adequacy and success of our program services. Questions to guide the review include:
Adequacy:
-
Are personnel resources adequate to provide instructional services?
-
Are material resources adequate to provide instructional services?
Appropriateness:
-
Do current instructional strategies and resources align with instructional goals?
-
Do curriculum resources support instruction designed to meet the ELD Standards?
Success:
-
What program data indicates progress toward language proficiency?
-
What strengths or weaknesses are evident?
-
What are the potential causes of program strengths or weaknesses?
Section 6: Reclassification
Reclassification from ELD
Susquehanna Township School District will follow the process established by PDE for reclassifying (exiting) ELs from ELD program placement. All English learners, including those whose parents have refused ELD services, will be assessed annually for language proficiency using the WIDA ACCESS for ELs. The score on this assessment, together with the scores on the completed rubrics will be used to determine eligibility for reclassification (exit) from ELD program placement.
To be considered for program reclassification an EL must demonstrate success accessing academic content and be able to interact socially and academically in English. Evidence of this ability is demonstrated by evaluating multiple measures including:
-
achieving the score criteria set by PDE on the annual test of language proficiency, ACCESS for ELLs 2.0
-
achieving the score criteria set by PDE on language use inventories that have been completed by at least 2 teachers
ELs who have successfully met the criteria for program reclassification are actively monitored for academic progress for two years by the ESL and content teachers. The teachers are asked to provide feedback on the monitored student’s progress at the end of each marking period. If the student continues to progress academically for two years then the active monitoring phase is over. Students are tracked as monitor students on PIMS for an additional two years.
If, at any point during the monitoring process, the student begins to struggle academically a team is convened to determine the source of the challenge. If it is determined that the student needs language support to be successful then he/she is placed back in the ELD program.
Once a student has successfully completed four years of monitoring, he/she is classified as “Former English Learner”. No further language proficiency data is maintained on this student.
These details of reclassification follow the PDE guidance that can be found here: are in the PDE guidance document found here: https://www.education.pa.gov/Teachers%20-%20Administrators/Curriculum/English%20As%20A%20Second%20Language/Pages/Reclassification-and-Exit-Criteria.aspx
Level of Learners
English Language Acquisition Proficiency Levels
English Language Proficiency Levels serve as a guide of what can be expected of an English Learner's language abilities.
Level 1 - Entering
Limited or no understanding of the English Language
May produce some isolated words or expressions
Responses may be non-verbal
Benefits from visuals, labeling, and concrete examples
Level 2 - Emerging
Limited ability to communicate in English
Understands simple directions
Begins to recognize environmental print
Limited understanding of English vocabulary
Limited ability to decode unknown words
Little knowledge of English conventions when writing
Low expressive and receptive vocabulary
Level 3 - Developing
Able to communicate more effectively in English
Oral and written communication may still contain some errors that impact meaning
Able to follow more complex verbal directions
Expressive and receptive vocabulary increases
Level 4 - Expanding
Able to communicate in more complete sentences with minimal errors that impact meaning
Greater understanding of words in content areas
Understands more abstract ideas/concepts
Level 5 - Bridging
Communication in English will sound fluent
Ability to decode words more efficiently
May still struggle with academic vocabulary
Understands more abstract ideas
Level 6 - Reaching
Communication in English will be comparable to native English speaking peers
ELD Assessments
Understanding ELD Assessments
W-APT
The W-APT stands for the WIDA-ACCESS Placement Test. The W-APT is a screening test that is given to incoming kindergartners who may be identified as English Learners (ELs). This test is required by the state and helps determine whether students are eligible for the ELD program. It is designed to measure the student's language proficiency level on the WIDA continuum. This assessment also serves as a guide for placement within the ELD program.
WIDA Screener
The WIDA Screener is an English language proficiency assessment that is given to incoming students in grades 1 through 12 who may be identified as English Learners (ELs). This test is required by the state and helps determine whether students are eligible for the ELD program. It is designed to measure the student's language proficiency level on the WIDA continuum. This assessment also serves as a guide for placement within the ELD program. It can be administered online or in paper form.
ACCESS
The ACCESS test is given annually to all students in Pennsylvania who are in an ELD Program. This assessment is used to monitor students’ English language proficiency levels as they acquire academic English in the four language domains of listening, speaking, reading and writing. There are several changes to the assessment this year.
- Most students in grades 1-12 will complete the online version called ACCESS for ELLs 2.0.
- Most students in grades 6-12 will complete listening, speaking, reading, and writing online.
- Most students in grades 4-5 will complete listening, speaking, and reading online, but they will respond to computer based writing prompts on paper.
- Most students in grades 1-3 will complete listening, speaking, and reading online, but they will complete a paper version for the written test.
- The kindergarten version of the test will remain the same as last year.
Federal guidelines require all students classified as ELs be assessed yearly for English language proficiency.
Alternate ACCESS
The Alternate ACCESS is a test similar to the ACCESS that assesses students’ English language proficiency levels in grades 1-12 who are already identified as English Learners (ELs). To qualify for the Alternate ACCESS students must have significant cognitive disabilities that prevent them from meaningful participation in the ACCESS for ELLs 2.0 assessment. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA; 2015) requires all students classified as ELs to be assessed yearly for English language proficiency, even students who are in special education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA; 2004) mandates that students with disabilities must participate in state and district assessments. These students may take alternate assessments with appropriate accommodations as documented in their Individualized Education Programs (IEP). WIDA created the Alternate ACCESS for ELLs for the above reasons. The Alternate ACCESS for ELLs is designed to measure English language proficiency growth of students with significant cognitive disabilities.
Parent Resources
Immigration Resources and Sites
Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center
This site is for a local resource in York that has information for detained immigrants, in addition to community programs to help immigrants.
http://www.pirclaw.org/index.php
Catholic Charities Immigration and Refugee Services
This site is for a local resource in Harrisburg for immigration and refugee services, including legal council.
http://www.cchbg.org/get-help/immigration-refugee-services
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and ACLU of Pennsylvania
This site offers information on civil rights in many languages, as well as questions and answers for non-citizens.
https://www.aclu.org
National Immigration Law Center
This site offers updates on immigration policies. It includes resources for immigrants and news on policy changes.
Dictionaries and Translation Sites
Word Reference
This is an online bilingual dictionary. It includes words, definitions, and examples in 16 different languages.
Merriam Webster Learner’s Dictionary
This English dictionary has simple easy to understand definitions and examples. You can also listen to the word to learn how to pronounce it.
http://www.learnersdictionary.com
Google Translate
This site can be used to translate simple words and text between 86 languages.
https://translate.google.com
BabelFish
This site can be used to help with simple translations between fifteen languages.
https://www.babelfish.com
Sites to Help Parents of ELs with School
Colorín Colorado
This is a bilingual site (English and Spanish) with articles and resources to help families of English learners.
http://www.colorincolorado.org
Songs for Teaching
This site offers a variety of songs that teach children English vocabulary and grammar.
http://www.songsforteaching.com/esleflesol.htm
Starfall
Young students love this site! It has interactive books and games that teach the alphabet and early reading skills.
http://www.starfall.com
ABC Ya
This site has reading and math games for grades K-5.
http://www.abcya.com
PBS Kids Learn
This site has resources to support your child's learning.
http://pbskids.org/learn
Sites to Help Parents Learn English
USA Learns
This site is for adults to improve English speaking, pronunciation, listening, reading, spelling, writing and grammar.
http://www.usalearns.org
English Learners Pod
This site has podcasts for adult English Learners. The podcasts are designed to help you learn English.
https://www.eslpod.com/website
Teacher Resources
WIDA Performance Definitions
Describes expected language at each English proficiency level
https://wida.wisc.edu/sites/default/files/resource/Performance-Definitions-Expressive-Domains.pdf
https://wida.wisc.edu/sites/default/files/resource/Performance-Definitions-Receptive-Domains.pdf
WIDA Can Do Descriptors
Highlights what English Learners can do at different stages of language development
https://wida.wisc.edu/teach/can-do/descriptors
PA English Language Development Standards
https://www.stateboard.education.pa.gov/Documents/About%20the%20Board/Board%20Actions/2017/ELD%20Standards.pdf
Colorín Colorado
For families and educators – everything from Math or Language Arts
http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/30570
Mrs. Hurley’s ESL
Lots of great resources – lessons, activities, additional websites
http://mrshurleysesl.com/teacherresources
Math Worksheet Wizard
Printables by grade level and ability
http://mathworksheetwizard.com/
Kidsolr
Online explanations of common concepts such as fractions, time, weather, etc.
http://www.kidsolr.com
EL Civics
Social Studies related materials
http://www.elcivics.com
ESL Games
Games for Learning English, Vocabulary, Grammar Games, Activities, ESL (eslgamesplus.com)
Community Resources
There are many community resources to aid our families.
Please Note: Information posted below is for reference only and endorsement by Susquehanna Township School District should not be implied.
Community Resources
- Community Libraries
- Educational Programs
- Food
- Clothing and Furnishings
- Medical Services
- Utilities
- Transportation
- Legal
Community Libraries
Community Libraries
The libraries in the Dauphin County Library System offer many local resources. Besides borrowing books, movies, and music from their collection, they offer:
- computers with internet access
- information about state resources, voting, and taxes
- job and career help that includes help with writing resumes, searching for a job, and preparing for an interview
- library services for people with special needs
East Shore Area Library
4501 Ethel Street, Harrisburg, PA 17109
717-652-9380
Kline Library
530 South 29th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17104
717-234-3934
Madeline L. Olewine Memorial Library
2410 North Third Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-232-7286
McCormick Riverfront Library
101 Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-234-4976
Educational Programs
Catholic Charities
Services: ESL
939 East Park Drive, Suite 102
Harrisburg, PA 17111
717-232-0568
Tri-County OIC
Services: GED Prep, ESL with Childcare, After-School Program, Nutrition Education
500 Maclay Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-238-7318
HACC
Services: GED Prep, ESL, Pre-College Prep
One HACC Drive
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-780-2300
Living Water Community Church (PM Only)
Services: ESL Classes
206 Oakleigh Avenue
Harrisburg, PA 17111
717-564-5003
Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church (PM Only)
Services: ESL Classes
2217 Derry Street
Harrisburg, PA 17104
717-561-2170
New Love in Christ Church (PM Only)
Services: ESL Classes
6003 Jonestown Road
Harrisburg, PA 17112
717-540-8439
Trinity Presbyterian Church (PM Only)
Services: ESL Classes
6098 Locust Lane
Harrisburg, PA 17109
717-545-4271
Food
County Assistance Office
Food Stamp information available:
(717) 240-2700
(800) 269-0173
Department of Public Welfare Helpline
(800) 692-7462
TDD for hearing impairments (800) 451-5886
Apply online for information through Compass website.
Hanna Pantry
Hanna Pantry is local to Susquehanna Township School District to support families in our township in need.
Home-HANNA's Pantry (hannaspantry.org)
Local Food Banks
Please go to the one closest to your house only one time per month, unless there is an emergency. You will need proof of income and residence.
Clothing and Furnishings
Community Aid
Thrift store providing clothing, household and collectible items. 50% off all items on Wednesdays.
4405 Lewis Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111
(717) 412-7706
Goodwill Store
Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Source of low cost used clothing, used household goods and furniture.
6033 Allentown Blvd, Harrisburg, PA 17112
(717) 652-5030
Salvation Army Family Store
Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am. - 9:00 pm.
3847 Union Deposit Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17109
(800) 728-7825
Medical Services
Ambulance - Call 911
CHIP
Offers free services for children’s medical care offered to children ages 0 through 15.
(800) 543-7101
http://www.chipcoverspakids.com
Hospitals
UPMC Harrisburg
111 S. Front Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
717-782-3131
UPMC Community Osteopathic
4300 Londonderry Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17109
717-652-3000
Utilities
PA American Water Company
(800) 717-7292
Contact:
Possible financial help at New Hope Ministries (PCAP)
5228 Trindle Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050
(717) 766-7333
PPL Electric
1030 McClay Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103
(800) 342-5775
On Track
A low income program that helps with lower bill payments and debt forgiveness.
Contact:
Tri County Community Action
(717) 732-1944 - ask for the On-Track Program
UGI (natural gas)
(800) 276-2722
Transportation
Capital Area Transit (CAT) (main bus station)
Provides transit services with reduced fees. Call for free bus route booklet.
901 N. Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
(717) 238-8304
http://www.cattransit.com
Legal
Mid-Penn Legal Services - Dauphin County
Weekday Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Serves persons of low income with free legal advice. Performs services especially in areas of crisis, domestic violence, housing concerns, custody (limited), public benefits, and unemployment issues.
To Apply for Services Call (800) 326-9177
213-A N. Front St.
Harrisburg, PA 17101-2240
Local Office (717) 232-0581
Local Office Toll Free (800) 932-0356
Fax (717) 232-7821
Nick Matash, Esq. Manager / Attorney