At the Out of School Time (OST) program, educational enrichment is a major priority, as is providing a safe, constructive environment in times when school is out and parents are still at work. After-school and summer camp activities include academic support, cultural enrichment, and healthy recreation to help kids thrive.

Our OST programs are located in Philadelphia neighborhoods and in Darby Pennsylvania. These are vibrant, close-knit communities, but they are not without their struggles. Poverty and unemployment rates are high and school-based community services offer vital connections. OST’s daily activities benefit youth, but at its core, OST brings families together and serves as a resource for the neighborhood.

A typical afternoon or summer day is jam-packed with educational clubs, homework help, and nutritious snacks. Monthly family nights bring together generations over meals and celebrations. We use STEAM-based curriculum, which means that projects are created to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.

ECS is recognized as a top provider in Philadelphia, offering a safe and nurturing environment where each child is empowered to be their best.

How To Donate

Join ECS In Equipping our Scholars for Success this School Year! As our students return to school in the coming weeks, ECS welcomes your support to ensure that ECS’s Out of School Time scholars and children in the Carroll Park community surrounding St. Barnabas Mission have the supplies for a successful school year. This year, ECS is offering two opportunities to equip our students:

  1. ECS is looking for your donation to help build “Kits for Kidz.” For $15, each child in our aftercare program will receive a kit filled with basic learning materials. Visit www.ECSPHILLY.org/donate and type “Kits for Kidz” in the “Comments” section to submit your donation.
  2. ECS is also accepting donations of school supplies at its St. Barnabas location at 60th and Girard to be distributed through our open choice food pantry. Please drop off new children’s backpacks and school supplies Monday – Friday, 9:00-4:00. Please call 215.528.5400 with any questions.