SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The Center for the Homeless announced it's been awarded a $20,000 grant from the United Way of St. Joseph County to support its Early Childhood Intervention Center.

The Early Childhood Intervention Center provides education and developmental support for children experiencing homelessness, from 6 weeks to 6 years old.

Center officials describe the program as a structured and nurturing learning environment tailored to the needs of young children facing housing instability.

The Play, Exploration, and Developmental Support (PEDS) program serves infants and toddlers up to 3 and while the Montessori classroom serves children 3 to 6.

“We are so incredibly grateful to United Way for this funding that allows for the continuation of high quality, trauma informed care that provides the tools necessary to help support our families break the cycle of homelessness," said Crystal Pitts, Director of Early Childhood Intervention Center.

Officials say the grant will be distributed in 2025.

You can learn more about the Early Childhood Intervention Center here.