Penn Medicine CAREs for the Homeless and Disadvantaged this Holiday Season

Though the city of Philadelphia has had some recent successes in helping the homeless, there are still many who need our help. At any given point in time, the city estimates there are around 650 people living on the streets, and every year, homeless outreach organizations, such as Project HOME, engage over 5,500 individuals living the street, while 12,000 people seek out shelters.

To support those in need during this holiday season, Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell partnered with Penn Medicine and numerous other community organizations last week for her 16th annual holiday party for the homeless and less fortunate.  The event—held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center—treated over 4,500 adults and children to dinner, moon bounces, a DJ, vendors, Santa Clause, raffled 77 bikes, and 2,569 gifts were donated. One was given for every child in attendance.

A Penn Medicine CAREs team of more than 100 staff volunteers prepared for, and worked at the event – wrapping presents, serving food, handing out toys, painting faces and more. Please see photos from the event below—and a video to come soon.