Joe Gerdes knows that not all parents can afford to send their children to private school.

That's why he's glad to be a part of organizations such as the Bridge Educational Foundation.

The foundation announced last week at Mother of Sorrows School in Murrysville that $32,535 is available through the state's Educational Improvement Tax Credit program. Corporations can make donations to groups such as the Bridge foundation and receive tax credit.

Gerdes, who serves on the organization's board of directors, said the donations can help parents absorb the cost of private school at a time when other expenses are rising.

"We're seeing costs go up for gas and food. It's the same with education," Gerdes said.

The program began during the school vouchers debate in 2001. Bridge is one of several organizations that help provide scholarships to families that qualify. More than a thousand families have benefited from the program.

State Sen. Don White (R-41) was an early supporter of the program. He said the scholarships can help provide a high-quality education at private schools.

"There's a lot of people who would like to be able to send their children to a school like Mother of Sorrows, but they can't afford it," White said.

State Sen. Bob Regola (R-38) said state officials like himself and White have voted to keep the program going because of the success of the students whose families have taken advantage of it.

"You have to realize what the priority is," he said.

Addressing a group of students from kindergarten through the third grade who attended the announcement, Principal Joe Rice said he and the Mother of Sorrows community were grateful for the donations.

"It's much easier to teach about giving when others give," he said.

This is the second time state officials have visited the school to promote the program.

White told the students that beginning their education at a school like Mother of Sorrows will benefit them in the future.

"All of you have dreams and wishes, and this place will help you meet them."