Marypat Tracy, MSW, LCSW, Executive Director of Connectedly, discussed their mission, strengthening community support networks, reducing social isolation, and improving the well-being of older adults, especially women and their families within the City of Philadelphia.  We discussed the numbers – Philadelphia is poor city with a high concentration of seniors, nearly 40% of adults age 65+ live alone, and 48% of low-income elders live alone and a significant number of seniors are raising grandchildren.

Connectedly approaches multi-generational issues through a ‘Grandparent Resource’ hub and programming including aimed at ‘Philly Families Connect,’ group sessions centered on case management, counseling and other family supports; ‘Philly Families Read Together,’ literacy workshops with children’s books and supplies to build their grandchildren’s reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, support their learning, and engage with schools, and ‘Philly Families Eat Smart’ which provides nutrition education, healthy cooking workshops, access to fresh produce along with stress management and fitness activities for children and grandparents.  For seniors living alone they offer ‘Healthy Lives Community Groups,’ in neighborhoods to create and sustain social connections and they offer telehealth counseling services.

To learn more go to connectedly.org