The Future We’re Building Together
At SHIM, we believe in a South Hills community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As we reflect on the progress we’ve made together, we’re also looking ahead with renewed focus on our mission. Guided by three strategic goals—Elevating Our Impact, Investing in People and Culture, and Ensuring Fiscal Sustainability this report highlights the strides we’ve taken to enhance our services, strengthen our infrastructure, and secure a sustainable future. Thanks to your support, we’re not just meeting today’s challenges; we’re building a brighter tomorrow for our neighbors in need. Together, we’re making a difference.
SHIM Vision
An inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
SHIM Mission
SHIM mobilizes community resources and implements sustainable programs that compassionately help our neighbors meet basic needs, achieve self-sufficiency, and build community.
Values
ELEVATE OUR IMPACT
Enhance our services to promote clients’ economic self-sufficiency
Your support has strengthened our food pantries, expanded crisis grants and service coordination, improved our clothing closet, and supported new facilities. You’ve also empowered youth through programs that build brighter futures. Your partnership makes a lasting difference in the South Hills.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
FOOD DISTRIBUTION of food distributed to neighbors in need, 75% purchased from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
808,909 lbs
24,000 lbs in senior boxes
14 gardens provided 17,608 lbs of produce
197,510 lbs of food donated by the community
7,905 people fed in 2024
57 Zip codes
With your support, we have:
• Expanded pantry days
• Introduced convenient drive-through and walk-through food distributions
• Ensured essential deliveries reach neighbors in need, providing greater access to vital resources for our community
Nearly 90% of participants said SHIM’s pantries helped them make healthier food choices, and 81% reported being able to pay bills more easily.
FOOD DISTRIBUTION
SENIORS
SENIORS
KIDS
KIDS COUNTRIES
603 per month
1,338 per month of pantry participants 17% of pantry participants
52 seniors received calls from 11 volunteers totaling
197,812
130,714 lbs for GPCFB for Baldwin
1,338 per month
LANGUAGES
Languages:
41%
Service coordinators received lbs food purchased from GPCFB for Bethel Pantry only 603 per month
515 hours
515 hours
2,000 lbs purchased outside of GPCFB
Nepali, Spanish, Arabic, Dari, Russian, Ukrainian, Chinese, Turkish, Farsi, Swahili, English of households speak English About half of our pantry clients are from refugee and immigrant families.
Nepali, Spanish, Arabic, Dari, Russian/Ukrainian, Chinese, Turkish, Farsi, Swahili, 5% other/undisclosed of households speak English, confirming our assumption that about half (even more) of pantry clients are refugees and immigrants
52 seniors received calls from 11 volunteers totaling from people seeking help
14 gardens provided 17,608 lbs of produce
197,510 lbs of food donated by the community
DIRECT ASSISTANCE
DIRECT ASSISTANCE
clients
181 clients received in crisis grants $110,527
$71,146 Approximately 150 clients received
CLOTHING CLOSET
in Dollar Energy grants
239,265 lbs for GPCFB for Whitehall 24,000 lbs in senior boxes from people seeking help
$71,146 Approximately 150 clients received in Dollar Energy grants
CLOTHING CLOSET
Clients received 14,124 items
of clothes and household items
of clothes and household items
Service coordinators received
699 calls
699 calls
BUILDING A COMMUNITY
Since 2018, SHIM’s Family Center has operated from the Wallace Building, but parking and space challenges prompted a move. We’re excited to announce our new location at 1400 Lebanon Church Road, providing a brighter, more welcoming environment. Along with major renovations to the SHIM Center, these updates enhance our ability to serve the South Hills community.
In line with our commitment to sustainability, our environmental efforts have reduced our landfill waste by 75%, cutting waste by 6 tons per month. Stay tuned for updates as we transition!
BUILDING SUCCESS
SHIM’s Service Coordination program helps individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. Through programs like EMPath Mobility Mentoring, Immigrant Services & Connections (ISAC), and Steps to Success, our Service Coordinators provide one-on-one support, helping clients set goals, navigate challenges, and access resources for a more stable future.
“As a Mobility Mentoring Specialist, I help participants envision an exciting future— looking beyond today’s challenges to their long-term dreams. Together, we set goals, create a plan, and take steps to turn their vision into reality.”
Olivia Montana, SHIM Mobility Mentoring Specialist
SHIM Center in Bethel Park
BUILDING A LIFE
SHIM’s youth programs support children from early childhood through high school and beyond. This year, we introduced the SHIM Scholars program to help students with college readiness and career exploration. We’re also expanding our efforts to stay connected with students after graduation, ensuring ongoing support as they continue their journeys.
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM
The Early Childhood Program prepared young children for success by ensuring 100% of participants were registered for kindergarten on time and 80% of the 11 graduates did not require English as a Second Language support. With a focus on early education and family engagement, the program equipped children with the foundational skills needed for a smooth transition to school and future academic success.
Pre-school Students
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The After School Program supported 48 students by providing homework help, fun activities, and a safe environment. Nearly all students received homework assistance, felt safe at SHIM, and had access to food, while the majority also reported having fun and building meaningful relationships.
YOUTH MENTORING
SHIM’s Youth Mentoring program empowered students through activities like homework help, mentoring groups, field trips, college visits, and FAFSA assistance. Students also explored healthcare careers in a Medical Class and built wellness and teamwork skills in the Running Club. With 78% reporting improved grades and 96% feeling their opinions were valued and heard, the program fostered academic success, personal growth, and future readiness.
This year’s Summer Camp, our biggest yet with 349 participants, played a vital role in bridging the gap between school years. It offered a safe, supportive environment where kids stayed engaged, built relationships, and continued learning, ensuring they were well-prepared for the year ahead.
This year’s SHIM Summer Camp had 349 participants
PEOPLE & CULTURE
Invest in SHIM’s infrastructure to boost community impact through people and technology
Over the past 8 years, SHIM has grown from 13 to 27 staff members, with 14 employees having 7+ years of tenure. Our focus on employee retention, growth, and a positive work environment has fostered a diverse, inclusive team. Volunteers and environmental initiatives are key to advancing our mission, while investments in staff development and technology strengthen our operations. We’re grateful for the ongoing support of our donors and board, which enables lasting change in the South Hills community.
BUILDING A WAY TO GIVE BACK
SHIM’s Volunteer Program has enhanced efficiency and engagement through the introduction of VicNet, an app used by 95 volunteers. New opportunities like Flower Arranging, Composting, Sorting Textiles, and Shredding have expanded volunteer roles. SHIM also partners with Stellar Support Services to include differently-abled volunteers, fostering inclusivity and strengthening community involvement.
309 volunteers donated
15,302 hours$512,464
saving the organization
FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY & REVENUE GROWTH
Ensure SHIM’s fiscal health through sound management and strategic use of reserves and assets for future growth
SHIM’s fiscal health is bolstered by sound management, strategic investments, and enduring partnerships. With over $2 million in lifetime giving from 86 dedicated donors who have supported SHIM for more than 20 years, our long-standing supporters play a crucial role in sustaining our mission. Meanwhile, the Board of Directors continues to provide visionary leadership, guiding SHIM’s impact and growth. Strong corporate and foundation partnerships, combined with cost-saving measures and prudent use of reserves, ensure program efficiency and effective resource allocation, paving the way for sustained growth and community impact.
SUPPORTER/DONORS
SUPPORTERS
Business & corporate Community groups, schools, nonprofit Foundations
Individual Religious organizations Allegheny County DHS
In 2024, SHIM received significant investments from the foundation community for our SHIM Center renovation and the new SHIM Family Center.
