Catholic Housing And Community Services Celebrates The 15th Anniversary Of The Saint Monica Eldercare Program
To mark the 15th anniversary of the Saint Monica Eldercare Program (SMEP), Reverend Joseph Kelley, Pastor of Saint Monica Parish, will preside over a Healing Mass and anointing ceremony. SMEP is a ministry of Catholic Housing and Community Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CHCS).
Nearly 65 clients and their families will be in attendance, as well as staff, volunteers and members of the Saint Monica Parish community.
Sunday, October 14, 2018
10:30 a.m.
Saint Monica Parish
2422 South 17th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
The SMEP helps older adults age safely in their homes. The program offers an array of short and long-term services to registered members of Saint Monica Parish. Services include comprehensive care management, in-home safety assessments, referral services, and more. The program also has a modest budget set aside for the provision of safety equipment not covered by insurance, and for the installation of grab bars and other safety devices.
In addition, SMEP offers care partner services. Care partners visit home-bound seniors once a week to help with light housekeeping laundry, neighborhood errands, and more. Services such as these are increasingly important for seniors today, and help offset loneliness and isolation.
Members of Saint Monica Parish have supported the SMEP from its inception. They help connect seniors to the program and occasionally donate money and equipment. Students from the parochial school also make handmade cards and gifts for seniors throughout the academic year.
Ms. Bonney Dahlgren DosSantos, Director of the SMEP said, “The Saint Monica Eldercare Program is grateful, thankful and blessed to be continuing to serve the older members of Saint Monica Parish by Supporting Choice and Providing Guidance in helping these wonderful people to remain in their homes within their Parish.”
Following the conclusion of Mass, a special luncheon will be held. Ms. Dahlgren DosSantos, and Reverend Kelley will present certificates of appreciation to SMEP staff and volunteers.
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Editor’s Note: CHCS is a leading provider of senior living services throughout the Philadelphia region. Dedicated staff are committed to providing the best quality support for seniors and their loved ones through senior programs. Programs include senior housing, senior centers, older adult care management, in-home support programs, adult day care, elder care helpline, and senior clubs.
To learn more about Catholic Housing and Community Services and its affordable senior housing program, please visit http://chcsphiladelphia.org.
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
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Contact:
Alaina Longo
Media and Events Specialist
215-587-3747 (office)