Celebrating 45 years of lifesaving support: Emergency Fund Coalition’s commitment to older Philadelphians
To commemorate the fund’s impact and its 45th anniversary, PCA hosted its annual Emergency Fund Coalition Luncheon on Thursday, June 6, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hilton, located at 4200 City Avenue. This year, the coalition honored Nancy M. Morrow, MSW, with the Bright Star of Aging Award for her dedication and vision in providing quality support and leadership as Strategic Development Consultant and Trainer including areas such as case management, mental health and aging, and ethical issues in long term care. Additionally, the PCA Community Service Awards recognized Yvonne Hughes of Showing Community Other Perimeters of Education (SCOPE), Eileen A. Jones of Germantown Avenue Crisis Ministry and Rahsheda Lockett of UESF, and Yocasta Lora of AARP for their committed service to older adults.
The Emergency Fund offers aid to older adults for essential expenses like home heating oil, utilities, medication, medical supplies, and food. Since its establishment in 1979, more than 30,000 households have received emergency assistance totaling over $3.3 million.
For the thousands of older adults living on fixed incomes in Philadelphia, rising expenses can be overwhelming. Philadelphia consistently ranks among the U.S. cities with the highest percentage of older adults living in poverty. Demonstrating its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for these residents, the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) has created the Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians to assist individuals who have exhausted all other options. PCA expresses its thanks to all supporters and sponsors who made this event possible, including Always Best Care and PA Health and Wellness. To contribute to the Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians, please visit https://www.pcacares.org/support-pca/
