Philadelphia families gathered on Saturday for a heart‑warming celebration organized by the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) and sponsored by United Healthcare Community Plan of Pennsylvania. The event highlighted the vital role grandparents play in caring for their grandchildren, whether they are primary caregivers or supportive family members.
Grandparents share their stories
Desire’e Williams, a resident of Northeast Philadelphia, laughed that she has “like 18” grandchildren but “I’m only taking care of two.” She spent the day with other grandparents, exchanging experiences and learning about resources available to them.
“Kind of acknowledging all that grandparents do for grandchildren, whether they’re raising them or not,” said Pamela Diaconis, development manager for PCA. “Our grandparents have cared for us and loved us and struggled for us and we want to recognize them and make sure that they’re supported.”
Information on benefits and programs
United Healthcare CEO Blair Boroch emphasized the importance of awareness, noting that many seniors are unaware of the benefits they can receive. “One thing we really try to do is provide awareness of all of the benefits that are out there,” he said.
Representatives from PCA explained that the organization’s Caregiver Support Program assists Philadelphia residents age 55 or older who are raising grandchildren in the absence of the parents. Services include financial assistance for childcare, after‑school programs, extracurricular activities, and referrals to legal services.
“Many services include financial benefit, which could be reimbursement for things like childcare, after‑school programs, extracurricular activities,” said Cheryl Clark‑Woods, director of the Caregiver Support Program. “They are great,” added Williams, describing the assistance as a blessing for grandparents who need a little extra help.
Health‑focused plans and community resources
United Healthcare highlighted its Dual Special Needs Plans (D‑SNP), which provide eligible seniors with food and utility assistance, over‑the‑counter drug coverage, and vision and dental benefits not covered by traditional Medicare.
Attorney Katie Jones of the SeniorLAW Center reminded attendees that legal resources are also available, helping seniors understand their rights when they provide childcare services.
Free meals and local partnerships
The Food Trust contributed a free meal and a bag of groceries for each family, reinforcing the community’s commitment to supporting older caregivers.
Diaconis noted that PCA’s broader mission is to help older adults “age in place with dignity” while ensuring they are not alone in caring for their families. The organization now offers a Caregiver Navigation Program, providing free consultations with care managers to discuss resources and eligibility.
Those in need can reach the program by calling PCA’s helpline at 215‑765‑9040 or visiting PCACares.org. The PCA office is located in the Wallace Building at 642 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130‑3049.
Why this matters
According to GrandFamilies.org, more than 235,000 grandparents in Pennsylvania are responsible for raising their grandchildren. By offering information, financial assistance, and community support, events like this help preserve strong family structures and uphold the values that keep neighborhoods thriving.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
