In the late 1980s, Senator H. John Heinz III and his wife Theresa (Heinz Kerry) were concerned about the increasing number of homeless in Pittsburgh. More people were making their homes in abandoned buildings, under highway overpasses, and on sidewalk grates. While temporary shelters existed, a more permanent solution was needed.
In the couple planned a fundraiser, hosting a picnic at their home at Rosemont Farm, in Fox Chapel. The event was well-attended by area friends and neighbors, and over 490 gifts were made to the fund.
A public servant and philanthropist, John Heinz was a man of hope who believed in the power of positive change. He died tragically in a plane crash in 1991 at the age of 52, but his memory lives on through three funds at The Pittsburgh Foundation that continue his lifelong legacy of giving to his hometown of Pittsburgh, a city synonymous with the Heinz family name.
This fund continues to provide shelter and other assistance to the homeless.