A common thread among chapters, the layette program is the first program of a newly formed chapter. A gift of new clothing and infant care supplies for newborn babies is assembled and delivered to various agencies. Established social service agencies are referred to us, and enable us to get the layettes to new mothers and their babies. Since 1992, more than 4000 layettes have been distributed in the area.

Additional information on the layette program is available on the National CCS site  here.

This program was begun in 1994, when the Society moved to a larger space and had enough storage. Children are given new coats, hats and gloves for the winter. As with layettes, the recipients are referred to us by established social service agencies. This program distributes the clothing from September through November each year. Members take delight in shopping year round for the coats, hats and gloves. Since inception, more than 6000 children in the area have received warm outer wear for the winter.

CCS of Pittsburgh currently financially supports BACKPACKS FOR HUNGER and BLESSINGS IN A BACKPACK, located in various school districts in Allegheny County. These are similar programs that provide food for children of families in need. The goal of this initiative is to support a student’s overall well-being and academic success by addressing their basic nutritional needs. The backpack is discreetly distributed to students identified by their school who may experience food insecurity at home, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals for the weekends. 

Since 2019, CCS has donated gifts for students with special needs to a school in Pittsburgh for their Angel tree. In December 2023, CCS of Pittsburgh expanded its Christmas gift program by adopting an elementary class of students. Each student is provided with gifts purchased and/or donated by CCS members. Our Adopt a Class program will continue to be carried out annually.

New to CCS in 2024 is our Diaper Distribution Program.  The goal of this initiative is to address the basic needs of families with young children, ensuring that infants and toddlers have clean diapers.  We provide diapers of all sizes to various social ministries at their request.