About CSFP
We change the lives of Philadelphia’s Pre-K-8th graders, one scholarship at a time.
Our Purpose
Transforming Lives Through Education
Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia (CSFP) has been changing lives by providing scholarships since 2001. CSFP is the largest and most diverse Pre-K-8th grade scholarship program in the state. Our mission is simple: We serve under-resourced families in Philadelphia by providing scholarships for quality, tuition-based schools. With a focus on K-8th grade education, we believe that success later in life means investing in the early years.
The Heart of CSFP
Our Guiding Principles
Discover the core beliefs that shape our actions and drive us forward: our Mission, Vision, Values, and Impact.
Our Mission
We believe every child deserves access to a quality education. That’s why we prioritize scholarships for those in the greatest financial need. Through a random lottery system, we ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all.
Our Vision
Our vision extends beyond the classroom. By addressing educational inequality, we clear the way for long-term economic and social success in Philadelphia. With our scholarships, we break down barriers and open doors to brighter futures for #PhillyKids.
Our Values
From research and data analysis to fostering empathy and respect within our community, we’re committed to making informed decisions that have a meaningful impact. Our values inspire everything we do.
Our Impact
With nearly 6,200 children served during the 2023-2024 school year and 70,000 scholarships awarded since our inception, CSFP continues to transform lives and shape the future for Philadelphia students.
Breaking Barriers Campaign
Opening Doors To Quality Education
In 2022, CSFP launched the Breaking Barriers Campaign to reduce barriers to quality education for Philadelphia families. As part of this ambitious campaign, we are committed to providing scholarships through 8th grade to ensure that CSFP students have financial support and consistency until high school; keeping families in the program for longer to achieve long-term outcomes; and increasing award amounts to make tuition more affordable for families.
Proud To Partner With Parents
CSFP helps empower parents to make educational decisions that meet the needs of students and their families. Parents can choose from one of 150+ school partners that are racially and ethnically diverse; offer religious, non-religious, Montessori, or single-sex education; and provide extracurriculars. By choosing schools that best fit a student early in their education journey, families can make decisions that set students up for long-term success.
All CSFP scholarships are need-based, not merit-based.
Scholarships are awarded via random lottery in order to guarantee a fair chance for all Philadelphia children.
Scholarship dollars follow the student should they choose to transfer to another CSFP partner school.
Families co-contribute a minimum of $500 towards their child(ren)’s tuition, demonstrating our parent’s commitment to education.
Up to three children in a family may receive a scholarship at one time, allowing families to support their children during their educational journey.
CSFP scholarships provide financial access and support under-resourced families who are in the most need.
CSFP has been a tremendous blessing to our family. It allowed us to have a choice in our child’s education; without CFSP’s generosity, we would have never been able to provide our 5 children with private & safe education.
Meghan McHugh
CSFP Parent & Program Ambassador
Our Past, Present & Future
Explore Our Legacy
Explore CSFP’s history, meet the dedicated individuals steering our vision, stay up to date with our latest news, explore exciting career opportunities, and more!
Our History
In 2001, a group of dedicated Philadelphians joined together to make a difference in the lives of children.
Our Board & Staff
Get to know the passionate and skilled individuals behind our organization who work tirelessly to produce positive change in Philadelphia through scholarships.
News & Updates
Discover the latest news, announcements, or updates about the impact we’re making in the community.
Career Opportunities
Explore exciting career opportunities at CSFP and join us in our mission to provide educational opportunities to Philadelphia’s under-resourced families.
Our Financials
See why we’ve consistently earned a prestigious gold-level rating from Guidestar.
Top Marks
CSFP Makes The Grade
CSFP recently earned a Candid Gold Seal of Transparency! Check out our nonprofit profile to learn more about our work.
Get Involved
Support Quality Education In Philadelphia
Ready to help us ensure that every child in Philadelphia receives a quality K-8th grade education? Connect with us today!