In the spirit of our mission and commitment to trust-based philanthropy, The Sarah Ralston Foundation (SRF) has played a pivotal role in supporting numerous nonprofit organizations serving marginalized populations across Philadelphia. Reflecting on The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s inaugural year, we are excited to share the significant outcomes of our 2023 general operating support grants. Last spring, we provided $750,000 in unrestricted general support funding to 28 exceptional nonprofits whose programs serve Philadelphia’s vulnerable underserved, elderly population.
With a focus on enhancing services for seniors, SRF’s grant funding has catalyzed transformative initiatives and programs, addressed critical needs and fostered resilience within our communities. These nonprofit partners have leveraged SRF’s support to expand operations, launch innovative programs, and provide essential resources to those most in need. “It is an honor to support these impactful nonprofits who make a profound difference in the lives of Philadelphia’s elderly community,” said Lynette Killen, Executive Director of The Sarah Ralston Foundation.
The impact of The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s support has been profound, spanning from sustaining vital programs amidst challenging circumstances to expanding services that address critical needs within Philadelphia’s vulnerable communities. Grantee organizations have utilized grant funding to provide meals, personal care items, and essential resources to thousands of individuals, enhance digital literacy among older adults, combat social isolation, and empower seniors for healthier lives. These initiatives have not only enriched the quality of life for older adults but also fostered community resilience and wellbeing across Philadelphia.
Below are summaries highlighting the transformative work of our 28 General Operating Support Grantees and their accomplishments over the past year, enhanced by funding from The Sarah Ralston Foundation. Each organization has demonstrated remarkable dedication and innovation in serving Philadelphia’s vulnerable and underserved elderly population, addressing critical needs, fostering resilience, and making a significant difference in our communities.
ARTZ Philadelphia
The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s critical support arrived at a pivotal moment for our organization. With other funders scaling back and pandemic-related support ending, their grant enabled us to sustain our programs, maintain our team, and transition back to in-person and online programming, supporting our community’s needs effectively. Without this support, these essential efforts would have been at risk.
Broad Street Ministry (BSM)
BSM utilized a $50,000 general operating grant from The Sarah Ralston Foundation to serve over 7,000 guests, providing meals, clothing, personal care items, and assistance with obtaining ID documents. BSM expanded core services to meet growing needs, including enhancing meal programs and launching a mobile health and hygiene service.
Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of Elders (CARIE)
CARIE sustained four primary programs serving older adults in Pennsylvania, including the Senior Medicare Patrol, Long Term Care Ombudsman program, PAVE for elder victims of crime, and the CARIE LINE, offering direct support and advocacy to over 2,000 callers annually.
Center in the Park
Center in the Park (CIP) utilized grant funds to sustain and enhance programs and services for older adults in Northwest Philadelphia. Over 1,500 participants engaged in programs and activities, exceeding pre-COVID levels and highlighting the impact of SRF’s support.
Chestnut Hill Meals on Wheels
Chestnut Hill Meals on Wheels addressed food insecurity among seniors by delivering 36,349 meals to 174 clients in 2023, with a significant portion provided at no cost. Their service played a vital role in supporting vulnerable individuals in the community.
Connectedly (formerly SOWN)
Connectedly, a 40-year community pillar, combats senior isolation with expanded programs. Supported by The Sarah Ralston Foundation, our work includes peer groups, telehealth sessions, and innovative projects like Connect4Health, empowering seniors for healthier lives.
Face to Face Germantown
Face to Face expanded focused programming for older guests with general operating support from The Sarah Ralston Foundation. This funding was critical in addressing specific needs and challenges faced by individuals suffering from poverty.
Federation Housing
Federation Housing provided affordable housing communities and essential services to over 1,500 residents, including a Senior Congregate Meal program and free transportation services, enriching the quality of life for seniors in Philadelphia.
Generations Online
Generations Online developed an Internet safety training module for older adults with funding support, addressing critical gaps in digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness among seniors.
Grand Central Kinship Care
Grand Central Kinship Care improved food pantry services with support from The Sarah Ralston Foundation, reducing hunger-related stressors for clients and offering a wider range of quality food items.
ICAP (Intergenerational Community Alliances and Programs)
ICAP expanded workshops for Black and Brown faith communities, focusing on hospice and palliative care issues affecting seniors. The grant enabled them to serve over 200 older adults through these initiatives.
Kith’s Integrated and Targeted Human Services (KITHS)
KITHS supported immigrant and refugee communities in Philadelphia by revitalizing community programs and offering nutrition education and cooking classes to empower individuals.
Lutheran Children and Family Services
Lutheran Children and Family Services enhanced services for adults age 50 and better through general operating support, expanding programs to combat social isolation and promote overall wellbeing.
Morivivi Cancer Support
Morivivi Latino Cancer Support Group used funding from The Sarah Ralston Foundation for essential operational expenses, enhancing communication tools and pursuing a permanent location to serve the community.
Northwest Community Court Program
The Northwest Community Court Program expanded services for seniors in underserved communities, acquiring essential equipment and enhancing literacy and wellness programs with SRF’s support.
Northwest Mutual Aid Collective (NWMAC)
WMAC expanded programming and services, adding refrigeration units and sustaining full-time staff to support more families and pantries in Philadelphia.
Northern Living Center
The Northern Living Center utilized SRF’s grant to enhance nutrition education, combat social isolation through expanded programming, enrich wellness programs, and provide access to transportation for older adults in the community.
Penn’s Village Penn’s Village completed a strategic planning process focused on enhancing operations, committee reviews, and programming to combat loneliness among older adults and accommodate growth.
Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation
The Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation supported senior adults, particularly Asian American communities, with comprehensive medical and mental health services, including screenings, counseling, and activity-based classes.
Ralston Mercy Douglas House
Residents at Joseph J. Hill Ralston Mercy Douglas House engaged in various activities and events, thanks to support from The Sarah Ralston Foundation, fostering fellowship and community engagement among residents.
Rebuilding Together Philadelphia (RTP)
Rebuilding Together Philadelphia improved housing conditions for senior homeowners by addressing critical repair needs and deepening engagement through initiatives like the Homeowner Advisory Council.
The Center Philadelphia
The Center Philadelphia provides critical services for vulnerable individuals, including showers, meals, case management, wellness clinics, and access to resources, supported by The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s generous grant.
UUH Outreach
The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s funding greatly enhanced UUH Outreach’s work in Northwest Philadelphia, supporting client-specific grants for older adults and maximizing impact by enrolling clients in essential benefits.
Urban Resources and Development Corporation (URDC)
URDC collaborated with Philadelphia’s District Attorney’s Office on a restorative justice diversion program, supporting community service opportunities for juveniles and hiring local, minority-owned contractors.
Yoga 4 the World
Yoga 4 Philly utilized grant funds to offer specialized yoga classes for seniors, promoting health, social connections, and physical fitness within the community.
The impact of The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s grant funding on Philadelphia’s nonprofit landscape is profound and far-reaching. From addressing food insecurity and social isolation to expanding vital services and enhancing community engagement, these organizations uplift and support vulnerable populations. Through our partnerships and strategic investments, we will continue to build a more resilient and compassionate city for all.
As we celebrate the transformative impact of The Sarah Ralston Foundation’s support on Philadelphia’s vulnerable and underserved elderly population, we are deeply inspired by the dedication and innovation demonstrated by our grantees. Their resilience and commitment to addressing critical needs within our communities reflect the true essence of trust-based philanthropy. “The success of our grantee organizations is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision in creating positive change,” remarked Lynette Killen, Executive Director of The Sarah Ralston Foundation. “We remain committed to supporting these vital initiatives that enrich the lives of older adults and strengthen senior communities across Philadelphia.”
Learn more about our grantee partners by visiting https://sarahralstonfoundation.org/nonprofit-partner-directory/
Join us in our mission to empower and enhance the lives of vulnerable, underserved older adults in Philadelphia. This May, in celebration of Older Americans Month, The Sarah Ralston Foundation is embracing the theme ‘Powered by Connections’ and inviting our supporters to contribute to our cause. Visit www.givebutter.com/sarahralstonfoundation to join us on our journey towards fostering resilience and creating a brighter future together. Your support makes a meaningful difference.