The "Caring Paws" Program of the Caring People Alliance sustains animal assisted therapy to the homebound, medically fragile, and the special needs of older adults in South Philadelphia. The program's impact on the population it serves has not only brought social interaction to very isolated clients but has also brought fulfillment to those who have emotional as well as physical challenges.

Highlights:

• home visitation outreach
• animal-assisted therapy program
• visiting therapist can assess additional client needs

Caring Paws service dog Fluer, visits with Methodist Hospital patient, Eleanor Burns

The Services on Site (SOS) program provides for Home and Personal Care Services to frail and low income seniors living in subsidized apartment buildings in South Philadelphia. The ultimate goal is to improve or slow the decline of the health, function and quality of life of low-income older adults so that they continue to live independently as long as possible.

Highlights:

• home health aid visitations
• promotes continued independence for seniors
• provides personal care services for quality of life

Carol Coe, visually impaired senior in her South Philadelphia apartment visiting with Eric Storlazzi of the Philadelphia Senior Center

ADROP targets the population within our South Philadelphia community who are underserved by the current healthcare system because they are poor, do not speak English, have no healthcare insurance, and are unable to attend daytime free healthcare clinics due to their work schedule. They serve primarily Asian immigrants whose age range is generally between 18 and 65 years of age. Methodist Hospital also provides laboratory services at no charge.

Highlights:

• provides translation services
• clinic offers convenient evening hours
• targets underserved South Philadelphia residents

ADROP program founder, Fr. John Deegan, OSA at the Unity Clinic in South Philadelphia greeting patient with interpreter Monique Tejasukmana. Background: Villanova University student nurse volunteer Vera Jones

Penn Asian Senior Services or PASSi supports the well being of ailing Asian American seniors who are isolated by cultural and language barriers. PASSi provides supportive services and helpful programs to ensure that these seniors continue to have healthy, dignified, and independent lives. They are licensed to train entry-level bilingual healthcare workers.

Highlights:

• in-home health care services
• provides training for home health aids
• ensures seniors maintain health and independence

Passi home health aide Kim Huong Doan, with patient Trung Quoc Tran in his home