Albert Einstein Healthcare Network Receives Grant for
West Oak Lane NORC from Chestnut Hill Health Care Foundation
Philadelphia, PA, May 20, 2008 – Albert Einstein Healthcare Network and its partners in The Strategic Alliance for the Elderly (SAFE) received a grant of
$30,000 from the Chestnut Hill Health Care Foundation to continue operation of The West Oak Lane NORC Initiative – Naturally Occurring Retirement Community program.
NORC was established in August 2007 with funds from the Chestnut Hill Health Care Foundation and Ogontz Avenue Revitalization
Corporation as a free, community-based, social service program. The aim of the program is to help older adults (age 60+) and
those who care for them, access services which are essential to helping residents remain at home as they age. By providing
these services, residents will be able to maintain their independence and forestall early or unnecessary institutionalization
in an acute or long-term care facility. The program provides information, referrals and follow-up to ensure appropriate linkage
to services.
“We are delighted that the Chestnut Hill Health Care Foundation recognizes the value of the NORC program and has chosen to
continue its support through this generous grant,” says Christopher Minnick, Director of NORC and Administrator of the Cancer Center and Geriatric Services at Albert Einstein Healthcare Network.
To understand the needs of the community it serves, monthly “Lunch and Learn” sessions are offered by NORC staff with topics
ranging from prescription drug safety to getting utility assistance. “Friendly Visitor” outreach helps clients with errands
and provides socialization for those who are homebound due to physical or mental health issues.
In addition, staff from the NORC program speak to area churches and civic groups and distribute a newsletter on a regular
basis to ensure community awareness of NORC resources. The West Oak Lane NORC program is located at 6812 Ogontz Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19138. For information, call 215-924-4815.
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NORC was established through the Strategic Alliance for the Elderly (SAFE), a partnership of organizations based in Northwest
Philadelphia, including: Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, Belmont Behavioral Health, Center in the Park, Jaisohn Center,
Neighborhood Interfaith Movement, Ogontz Avenue Revitalization Corporation, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, Stapeley in
Germantown, Unitarian Universalist House Outreach Program, Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Philadelphia, and West Oak
Lane Senior Center.
CONTACT: Judy Horwitz
Communications Specialist
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network
215-456-6767
horwitzj@einstein.edu
Publish date: May 20, 2008
