The Pew Charitable Trusts awarded funding to the Intergenerational Center at the College of Education and Human Development, along with 27 other Philadelphia-area organizations that work to preserve the dignity, independence, and quality of life of the region's frail seniors, many of whom are struggling with economic hardship, social isolation, and health and mobility challenges. Nearly $4.52 million over the next three years was awarded to assist approximately 44,000 elderly people annually.

"Over one-quarter of the Philadelphia region's 621,000 seniors age 65 or older are living at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty line, representing an income of up to $24,000 for an individual, with many facing health issues and social isolation while struggling to make ends meet," said Frazierita Klasen, the vice president overseeing Pew's work in Philadelphia.

Pew's award of $225,000 will support the Intergenerational Center, in collaboration with the Penn Memory Center at the University of Pennsylvania; operate an in-home respite support and mentorship program for families caring for older relatives living in the greater Philadelphia region.
Dr. Patience Lehrman, Executive Director of the Intergenerational Center at Temple University, reiterates the need to connect the College's resources with families in our community. "The Intergenerational Center will collaborate with the Penn Memory Center to serve the frail and elderly enrolled in our 'Time Out' program. By engaging college students and matching them with older adults to provide caring companionship, and meaningful engagement, we seek to mitigate isolation and preserve this vulnerable population's dignity, independence, and overall quality of life."

About the Intergenerational Center (IGC) at Temple University
Founded in 1979, the Intergenerational Center at Temple University strengthens communities by bringing generations together to address critical concerns and create opportunities for lifelong civic engagement. The Center's caregiver support programs provide services for a diverse community of caregivers, ranging from older adults who care for grandchildren or foster children to family members who care for elders with physical or mental health illnesses. For more details, please contact Dr. Patience Lehrman [click-for-email]).