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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Allentown, PA

Home Care Allentown, PA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Allentown Freight Station Historic Site - Lehigh Valley Railroad gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Allentown, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Allentown, PA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always treated with respect and they showed care for my mother. Everyone was pleasant when I would call about different circumstances.”

David G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services provided very professional services that resulted in finding the best personal care facility fit for my mother. They have a passion for helping seniors and prioritize the health and well-being of their clients over everything else. I would highly recommend them when you are in a position of finding senior care services for your loved ones.”

Mary M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If your loved one needs in home care, I highly recommend Always Best Care of Bethlehem. Wonderful staff and excellent caregivers that go above and beyond what is expected of them!”

Carrie W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always best care cared for my mother. They have been amazing. My mother really likes her caregiver.”

jill F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken Good was so helpful and knowledgable when my elderly father needed in-home care. He actually came to the rehab center to meet us where my father was getting physical therapy after a fall. This way he was able to accurately access how much care my father would need and which caregivers would be the right fit. We were afraid we'd have to move him to a nursing home but fortunately we were able to set up in-home care. It's been four months now and we have been very happy with the caregivers who have been assigned to my father. Always Best Care is very responsive and flexible in adjusting hours as needed, somehow managing to keep the caregivers my parents have bonded with even though the hours have been reduced. We are happy our parents are able to age in place with care as they need it.”

Barbara T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca have been extremely helpful during the process of finding in-home care for my in-laws. They have been sensitive to our needs, diligent in their efforts to provide the best possible care, and consistent in their follow-up to see if things are satisfactory. We have been executing this process from out-of-state and the process has been very smooth. Through phone calls and face-to-face meetings when possible, both Ken and Rebecca have been professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Jane T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken is a fantastic provider of in-home care in Doylestown. I highly recommend his team.”

Matthew R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken was the first person I really talked to when I found out my father was given a year to live. Instead of immediately looking at me like a business opportunity, he treated me like a close friend. He listened and treated me with complete kindness.. I have gotten to know Ken and his wife Rebecca and I can easily say that they are two of the most wonderful people I have ever met. There is nothing in this world I wouldn't trust them with. Especially the care of a loved one.”

Sheri C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent in every respect.”

Andre C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The support provided by Ken and Rebecca Good (and all of their team) has been invaluable as the family navigates through dealing with the impact of our sister's illness to all of us. The structure with using ABC's online portal to evidence our sister's care is extremely beneficial in ensuring strong and coordinated communication. It is truly appreciative this technology is available and utilized by ABC. For those dealing with identifying care for a loved one, you would be smart to contact Always Best Care of Upper Buxmont.”

Denise O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very few businesses or even people come from a place of compassion and a good heart. Always Best Care does. The client always comes first as does their health and well-being, and the family seeking the best for their loved ones. Thank you Ken for all you did for my parents!”

Mary C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Ken and Rebecca go above and beyond for their clients, as do their staff. They handled emergent situations for my grandmother when we were on vacation - staying with her the entire time at the hospital. Ken also did significant research for our decision to put her in an assisted living community. I highly recommend Always Best Care.”

Jill K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken and Rebecca were a godsend in our search for care for our elderly father. Both Ken and Rebecca were incredibly compassionate, empathetic and caring. In addition, they were knowledgeable and had a wonderful process for determining the needs of the family, the needs of the specific individual and finding an appropriate match for a caregiver to meet those needs. I can't say enough about the services provided by Always Best Care. Ken always went above and beyond, he knew the questions to ask, and how to navigate all the red tape of various organizations (Veterans Administration, etc.) AND he diligently does site visits to the facilities he references so he is able to speak from experience about the quality of care at the facilities under consideration. If you are in need of advice and assistance in caring for a family member I recommend Ken and Rebecca and Always Best Care with no reservations.”

Lisa E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very good, prompt attention to an unexpected need for day care in home for Mother-in-law. Ken is very well versed in available providers and other services needed at this time.The day care providers dealt well with her memory problems.”

Earl P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ken & Rebecca were very helpful & knowledgeable with resources in helping me care for my Mom during an extremely difficult time. It was great finding two people who cared & listened to my situation. I never felt alone in my difficult decision making process.”

Howard S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Both Rebecca and Ken were very easy to talk with and were very interested in getting to know my father. They went out of their way to help us as our plans changed from in home care to personal care. They explained the process and were with us every step of the way to answer questions and provide support. I would use them again in a minute.”

Gretchen L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider Always Best Care provides extremely caring, compassionate help for my mom, I live out of town, and can't be there myself very often. But this business goes all-out to take care of my mom. I don't know what we would do without them.”

KJack
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TESTIMONIALS

“Your loved ones will be in great care with Always Best Care of Greater Bethlehem.”

Bobbi D.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Allentown, PA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Allentown, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Allentown, PA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Allentown, PA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Allentown, PA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Cedar Beach Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Allentown, PA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Grille 3501 or visit Historical Allentown Station (Central Railroad of New Jersey , don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Allentown, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Allentown, PA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Allentown, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Allentown, PA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your PA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Allentown, PA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Allentown, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Allentown, PA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Allentown, PA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • DevonHouse Senior Living Allentown
  • Above & Beyond Senior Living (West End)
  • Abode Care Of Allentown
  • Above and Beyond at the Knights.
  • Riverton Enhanced Senior Living
  • Above All Senior Living
Home Care Allentown, PA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Allentown, PA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Allentown, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Allentown, PA

Latest News in Allentown, PA

Local News | Allentown and Lehigh County have some of PA’s…

Lehigh County and the Allentown area have some of the highest rates of eviction statewide, worsening the region’s affordable housing and homelessness problem.But what if eviction proceedings took place in a “housing court,” where a judge presides exclusively over civil housing-related issues like evictions and code violations?It’s something Allentown is considering as part of its “comprehensive housing strategy,” which it will unveil publicly this year. Could a housing court help curb stagger...

Lehigh County and the Allentown area have some of the highest rates of eviction statewide, worsening the region’s affordable housing and homelessness problem.

But what if eviction proceedings took place in a “housing court,” where a judge presides exclusively over civil housing-related issues like evictions and code violations?

It’s something Allentown is considering as part of its “comprehensive housing strategy,” which it will unveil publicly this year. Could a housing court help curb staggering levels of eviction in the city?

Allentown Community and Economic Development Director Vicki Kistler said the city has “not fully fleshed out” what a housing court would look like or if it would be feasible to implement, but said it could be a tool to tackle soaring rates of eviction.

“We would have to approach our partners and our presiding judge who deals with the oversight of the magistrate and have a conversation,” Kistler said. “But I think that in reading the description of the housing court and the purpose of a housing court, it certainly fits into some of the options that have been brought up … as possible ways to address and to expedite, as well as to fully change, the way we all approach eviction and the housing issues.”

Indeed, Allentown has markedly high rates of eviction than the statewide average. In some parts of Allentown, the Lehigh County seat — specifically ZIP code 18102 in Center City — over 40% of renters are at risk of eviction.

Lehigh County as a whole has the third highest eviction rate in Pennsylvania, with almost 14 out of every 100 renters likely to face eviction post-pandemic, compared with the state average of 7 out of 100, according to a study from the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania. Northampton County was ranked eighth, with just over 8 out of 100 renters facing eviction.

A state moratorium on evictions, as well as federal emergency rental assistance programs, helped curb eviction filings during the pandemic: Rates reached a low of 3.59 eviction filings for every 100 households between July 2020 and June 2021.

But as those programs expired, eviction filings have returned to the same rate as pre-pandemic and, in Lehigh County, rates are even higher than they were before 2020.

The Lehigh Valley has a well-documented affordable housing problem and tenants who cannot keep up on rent payments — usually those in poverty who are “cost-burdened,” meaning they spend more than 30% of their total income on housing costs, or more than 50% if they are “extremely” cost-burdened — are at high risk of being evicted.

“If something goes awry, you can’t afford to pay for your housing; if you fall behind enough, your landlord will file an eviction notice and it begins to spiral,” said Lori Malloy, executive director of the nonprofit North Penn Legal Services. “You may be able to resolve that but it adds hundreds of dollars in fees.”

North Penn provides legal representation to tenants facing eviction in Lehigh and Northampton counties at two local magistrates, but it does not have the resources to represent every tenant facing eviction, Malloy said, and the scheduling of evictions at district courthouses can present challenges.

Evictions, which are heard at the district judge level, are scheduled intermittently alongside other types of hearings — traffic citations, small claims, misdemeanors — which can make it difficult to have a lawyer available to represent tenants.

“It’s very difficult for a program, even if they just wanted to send over a support staff person about rental assistance, to be there all day long, all day for when a landlord-tenant case might come in,” Malloy said. “So that’s where the scheduling in a particular afternoon or morning or one day depending on the volume is helpful to be able to provide representation.”

The prospect of a housing-specific court has a precedent in Pennsylvania.

In Philadelphia, one courtroom is dedicated solely to eviction proceedings, called the Landlord-Tenant Court. And since 2017, thanks to a city initiative called the Philadelphia Eviction Prevention Project, public interest firm Community Legal Services staffs a “lawyer of the day” program, which makes a lawyer as well as paralegals and court navigators available to tenants facing eviction.

Very few tenants facing eviction have the means to hire a lawyer, but legal representation can make a huge difference in the outcome of their case. For example, according to a study published in the Harvard Law Review, tenants that had legal representation saw a 77% decrease in eviction judgments.

“When you have an attorney, you’re able to understand what your options are,” said Rachel Garland, a co-managing attorney at Community Legal Services in Philadelphia. “We talk through their situation, we talk through what the evidence is, what the landlord has, and list out for them the pros and cons and work with them whatever their goal is to try and reach that goal.”

Sometimes that looks like a payment agreement reached between between the tenant and the landlord, or connecting the tenant to a rental assistance program to help them make up the difference with what they can afford for their rent payment. No matter the outcome, legal representation can help a tenant avoid the traumatic experience of an eviction, Garland said.

And bolstering legal representation for tenants could be a tool to combat rising homelessness in the area: According to the Lehigh Valley Regional Homeless Advisory Board‘s 2023 point-in-time count, 465 households made up of 686 people were homeless in Lehigh and Northampton counties, a 6.6% increase since before the pandemic. That number is expected to increase “dramatically” in 2024, according to an advisory board news release.

Allentown’s comprehensive housing strategy, which it expects to make public before the summer, could outline if and how the city would establish a housing court.

Because it is a third-class city, it cannot follow the exact framework of Philadelphia, a first-class city with its own municipal courts.

But a state statute allows the Court of Common Pleas in a given judicial district to establish a housing court with jurisdiction over most housing-related legal issues. The city could lobby local judicial offices to do just that.

Advocates say a housing court could be an important step forward, but should be done in tandem with bolstering legal representation programs and rental assistance and resources, to prevent eviction and keep people from homelessness.

“If the county courts would work with them to create a housing court on those issues, that may be helpful,” Malloy said. “What that looks like, I don’t know.”

Reporter Lindsay Weber can be reached at [email protected].

Biden’s Allentown-area visit will highlight the community as an economic success story

President Joe Biden will travel to the Allentown area on Friday, where he will visit with small business owners and local officials to make the case that Bidenomics is to thank for the region’s economic rebound.Michael Negron, Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, said on a Thursday call with reporters that Biden’s visit would serve to “highlight how communities that for too long had been left behind by the failed trickle-down economic policies of the past are now making an economic comeback.”...

President Joe Biden will travel to the Allentown area on Friday, where he will visit with small business owners and local officials to make the case that Bidenomics is to thank for the region’s economic rebound.

Michael Negron, Special Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, said on a Thursday call with reporters that Biden’s visit would serve to “highlight how communities that for too long had been left behind by the failed trickle-down economic policies of the past are now making an economic comeback.”

During the pandemic, Negron said, unemployment in Allentown reached 16% and many businesses closed their doors.

“But today, with the support of this administration’s policies, Allentown is amongst the many communities across our country making a comeback since the President took office,” he added.

The White House didn’t provide any details about which businesses Biden would be visiting, but the Lehigh Valley News noted there was also a “special event” planned in the borough of Emmaus on Friday that included parking restrictions. The Morning Call reported that several school districts in the Lehigh Valley planned early dismissals Friday ahead of the president’s visit.

The president is expected to arrive at Lehigh Valley International Airport in the early afternoon.

According to the White House, since Biden took office, Allentown has seen “historic” employment growth, small business creation and investments. Personal income in Allentown is up more than 3% after adjusting for inflation, compared to before the pandemic, the White House said.

The Allentown metro’s unemployment rate was 3.4% in November, the most recent data available according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an apparent 20-year low.

“Allentown residents have seen their wages increase under President Biden’s economic agenda as the Lehigh Valley economy has grown through investment in small business,” Mayor Matt Tuerk said in a statement.

A fact sheet from the White House listed some of the recent investments the Biden administration has made in the Lehigh Valley, including $5 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation for renovations at Lehigh Valley International Airport, $2.3 million in American Rescue Plan funding that allowed Allentown to invest in a new fire training facility and emergency operations center, and $1 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a climate action plan for the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission. And the Department of Commerce designated Allentown a “Recompete area,” making it eligible to compete for an award of up to $50 million to support small manufacturers and workers.

The White House also pointed to recent local workforce investments by two large companies in the Allentown area. Pratt Industries, an Australian corrugated packaging company, announced in September it would invest $500 million into the five plants it has in Pennsylvania, including its Macungie and Emmaus facilities in the Lehigh Valley. The company’s plans called for hiring several hundred workers over the next decade, the state announced at the time.

The state Department of Economic Development (DCED) provided Pratt with more than $1.3 million in funding in 2011 to locate the plant in Macungie, which the DCED says helped created more than 125 jobs. Pratt has more than 800 employees in Pennsylvania, according to the DCED.

And in June, Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that Schless Bottles, a premium plastic jars and bottles manufacturer, would relocate from its New Jersey manufacturing facility to Allentown, bringing an investment of more than $7.5 million and creating 98 new full-time manufacturing jobs in the next three years.

The White House noted such investments create a “ripple effect,” creating jobs and bringing more customers to small businesses in the region.

The Biden administration also announced on Thursday that new Census data showed 5.5 million new business applications were filed in 2023. In Allentown, new business applications grew by a record 30% in 2022 over pre-pandemic levels, the administration said.

Friday will be Biden’s second visit of the year to the battleground state of Pennsylvania. On Jan. 5, he kicked off his reelection campaign with a speech at Montgomery County Community College, where he warned that American democracy is at stake in the 2024 election.

Pa. officials tour Allentown to tout proposed $25M program to boost Main streets, downtowns

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Local and state officials braved the cold Friday in downtown Allentown to make the case for a huge increase in funding for a program to boost Main streets.Gov. Josh Shapiro is pushing for state lawmakers to allocate $25 million in the 2024-25 budget for a new program called Main Street Matters.State officials say that would “build upon and modernize” Pennsylvania's Keystone Communities Program, which is meant to bring together the public sector and private companies to spur economic developmen...

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Local and state officials braved the cold Friday in downtown Allentown to make the case for a huge increase in funding for a program to boost Main streets.

Gov. Josh Shapiro is pushing for state lawmakers to allocate $25 million in the 2024-25 budget for a new program called Main Street Matters.

State officials say that would “build upon and modernize” Pennsylvania's Keystone Communities Program, which is meant to bring together the public sector and private companies to spur economic development.

“Main streets are the heart of a local community, the heart of a local economy."
Rick Siger, secretary of Pennsylvania's Department of Community and Economic Development

The $25 million would be almost four times more than the Keystone Communities Program can offer each year, according to Rick Siger, who leads the state's Department of Community and Economic Development.

Siger has been touring cities throughout Pennsylvania touting the potential power of Shapiro’s proposed investment.

“Main streets are the heart of a local community, the heart of a local economy,” Siger said Friday at a news conference outside the Downtown Allentown Market.

“That means something a little different in each place. Here in Allentown, this community has really lofty ambitions for your downtown.”

Downtown business corridors “have the potential to be engines” of the state’s economy and must be supported by “community investments … because [Pennsylvania towns] face more competition than ever to attract new residents and retain existing ones,” he said.

“When we invest in our Main Streets, we're investing in our core identity."
State Rep. Peter Schweyer

State Sen. Nick Miller, D-Lehigh, called Shapiro’s proposed Main Street Matters program “a huge investment in bringing the downtown to life,” while state Rep. Peter Schweyer noted the importance of supporting local communities.

“When we invest in our Main streets, we're investing in our core identity,” said Schweyer, D-Lehigh.

L.V. depends on downtowns' success: Mayor

State Rep. Mike Schlossberg said he learned the power of economic development programs firsthand in his early 20s as a regional Main Street manager for the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Schlossberg, D-Lehigh, said he "really got to see what happened … when local governments, business organizations, volunteers and small businesses came together to do good work.

“The entire region is dependent upon the success of Hamilton Street in Allentown, of Main Street in Bethlehem and Center Square in Easton."
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk

“It was an absolutely fascinating experience — one that was only constrained by a lack of resources,” he said.

Enabling the private sector “to do good work with public support” is arguably “the most important thing that we can do in government,” he said.

Downtowns play important roles in regional economies, but they “have an uncertain future” throughout the state and country, Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk said.

“The entire region is dependent upon the success of Hamilton Street in Allentown, of Main Street in Bethlehem and Centre Square in Easton,” Tuerk said before the group of officials went on a tour of the soon-to-open downtown Da Vinci Science Center.

A tentative agreement of sale has been reached for Allentown's iconic PPL Tower

ALLENTOWN, Pa — The iconic PPL Tower in downtown Allentown is officially off the market.PPL Corp. announced Friday a tentative $9 million agreement to sell the 2 North Ninth St. Tower Building and office complex to Pennsylvania-based developer D&D Realty Group.It comes 10 months after a plan was announced to move PPL's corporate headquarters ...

ALLENTOWN, Pa — The iconic PPL Tower in downtown Allentown is officially off the market.

PPL Corp. announced Friday a tentative $9 million agreement to sell the 2 North Ninth St. Tower Building and office complex to Pennsylvania-based developer D&D Realty Group.

It comes 10 months after a plan was announced to move PPL's corporate headquarters from the landmark skyscraper to Two City Center, on 7th and Hamilton streets.

The tower hit the market in August.

The developer’s proposed plans for the properties, covering about 450,000 square feet in downtown Allentown, include new mixed-use commercial spaces, apartments and other amenities, a release said.

The 24-story complex is the Lehigh Valley's tallest building.

“We were excited to see the plans proposed by D&D Realty Group and the economic opportunities additional mixed-use commercial and residential space would bring to downtown Allentown,” PPL President and Chief Executive Officer Vincent Sorgi said in the release.

“Our company has been proud to call Allentown home for a century, and we plan to remain part of the city’s growth story. The Tower Building remains iconic within our community, and we think these future plans will secure its legacy for decades to come.”

More on D&D Realty

D&D Realty Group, based in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, describes itself as "a multi-faceted real estate company concentrating on development." It's known for projects throughout the state, which include converting properties into mixed-used commercial and residential units with amenities including restaurants, storage and grocery stores.

“As developers, our bread and butter has been transforming historic downtown office buildings into mixed-use developments with a focus on high-end residential and complementary commercial uses,” said Nick Dye, co-managing member of D&D Realty Group.

“PPL’s iconic headquarters provides us with the perfect canvas for our vision of high-end, downtown living in the Lehigh Valley.”

Some of its more recent projects include the development of high-end apartments for Wilkes University, and an apartment complex known as Riverview West, described as an upscale for-rent condominium complex in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

A 'steady presence' in Allentown

“We look forward to remaining a steady presence in the city, to engaging as we have for years to build a stronger community, and to keeping our corporate headquarters here in Allentown as we create the utilities of the future in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Virginia and Rhode Island,” Sorgi said of PPL.

Public officials also weighed in on the deal.

“I’m thrilled that the team at PPL was able to combine the excitement of revitalizing an iconic property with the positive momentum in Allentown to attract a quality developer to this project,” said Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk.

“Allentonians are proud of our skyline, and it’s wonderful to know that the tower will continue to light up Center City Allentown, reinforcing downtown as a place where businesses thrive and we celebrate the joy of life.”

State Rep. Josh Siegel, D-Lehigh, also voiced support for the project, calling it "an opportunity no developer could pass on."

“I’m grateful to PPL’s continued commitment to Downtown Allentown, from keeping their corporate headquarters at the heart of our city, Two City Center, and working to ensure that the iconic PPL Tower continues to be part of our city’s story of revitalization,” Siegel said.

“Post-COVID urban development requires a renewed commitment to the things which make cities special, unique, and desirable: their walkability, their accessible amenities, and their vibrancy. Mixed-use development is critical to ensuring that cities continue to thrive by creating robust availability of housing next to the jobs people desire, the attractions they demand and the resources they need."

He phrased the redevelopment project as "critical to the continued revitalization of the Hamilton Street Corridor."

"Bringing new residents to this crucial corridor will complement ongoing projects such as the Da Vinci Science Center, Archer Music Hall, Moxy Hotel, and the conversion of the PPL Plaza. It shows that Allentown is yet again on the leading edge of urban renewal and a strong model worthy of replication," he said.

8 Awesome Allentown Suburbs to Consider Living in 2024

As Pennsylvania’s third-largest city, Allentown has plenty to offer anyone moving to the area. There are countless things to do whether you visit the Allentown Art Museum and America on Wheels Museum, or check out Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. No wonder 125,900 people are living in Allentown.If you’re looking to ...

As Pennsylvania’s third-largest city, Allentown has plenty to offer anyone moving to the area. There are countless things to do whether you visit the Allentown Art Museum and America on Wheels Museum, or check out Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. No wonder 125,900 people are living in Allentown.

If you’re looking to buy a home in Allentown, you’ll find that the median home sale price is $215,000. And if you’re looking to rent an apartment, the average rent in Allentown is $1,578.

But if you’re considering something more suburban, we can help you find the right place to buy a home. At Redfin, we’ve gathered a list of the 8 best Allentown suburbs to check out. And they’re all less than 15 miles away from the city. Let’s check them out.

#1: Hellertown

Median home price: $230,000 Average sale price per square foot: $212 Distance from Allentown: 8 miles Hellertown, PA homes for sale Hellertown, PA apartments for rent

With a median home sale price of $230,000, Hellertown is the first Allentown suburb on our list. About an 8 mile drive away from downtown Allentown, Hellertown is home to roughly 6,200 people. Living in Hellertown, you can visit Grist Mill Park, explore the Lost River Caverns, opened in 1930 with trails, a museum, and walking tours, and check out the charming downtown streets.

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Median home price: $239,500 Average sale price per square foot: $176 Distance from Allentown: 3 miles Fullerton, PA homes for sale Fullerton, PA apartments for rent

Just a little more expensive than Hellertown is Fullerton, the second suburb on our list. Only 3 miles from the city center you can visit the Allentown Art Museum and America on Wheels Museum in no time. Some popular things to do in Fullerton include hiking the Jordan Creek Trail, stopping by the Helfrich Springs Grist Mill, and checking out the local shops and restaurants.

#3: Catasauqua

Median home price: $259,000 Average sale price per square foot: $178 Distance from Allentown: 5 miles Catasauqua, PA homes for sale Catasauqua, PA apartments for rent

Taking the third spot is Catasauqua. Just 5 miles outside of Allentown, there are plenty of charming and outdoorsy activities to take part in when living in Catasauqua. Make sure to stop by historic landmarks like the George Taylor House and the Dery Mansion, and check out downtown Catasauqua.

#4: Emmaus

Median home price: $275,000 Average sale price per square foot: $171 Average rent for an apartment: $1,610 Distance from Allentown: 5 miles Emmaus, PA homes for sale Emmaus, PA apartments for rent

Only slightly more expensive than Catasauqua is the suburb of Emmaus. With roughly 11,600 residents in this Allentown suburb, make sure to visit parks like Wildlands Conservatory, Emmaus Community Park, or Rodale Natural Area, stop by the historic Shelter House, and peruse the shops on Main Street.

#5: Bethlehem

Median home price: $285,000 Average sale price per square foot: $203 Average rent for an apartment: $1,815 Distance from Allentown: 6 miles Bethlehem, PA homes for sale Bethlehem, PA apartments for rent

Drive 6 miles outside of Allentown and you’ll find the suburb of Bethlehem, another great area to add to your list. With 75,800 people living in this town, Bethlehem is a great option to consider when looking to stay close to Allentown without living in the city. In Bethlehem, you can see the SteelStacks where you can also discover the exhibits at the National Museum of Industrial History, explore downtown Bethlehem where you’ll find shops and restaurants, and take in the views at Sand Island Park.

#6: Northampton

Median home price: $290,000 Average sale price per square foot: $200 Distance from Allentown: 8 miles Northampton, PA homes for sale Northampton, PA apartments for rent

Sixth on the list is another well-known Allentown suburb, Northampton, where you’ll find the home prices are about $290,000. With roughly 10,400 people living in Northampton, it’s a great suburb to consider buying a house in. You’ll have easy access to what makes this suburb stand out, so make sure to walk the riverfront trail at Canal Street Park and see a movie at the Roxy Theatre dating back to 1921.

#7: Quakertown

Median home price: $293,000 Average sale price per square foot: $210 Average rent for an apartment: $1,829 Distance from Allentown: 14 miles Quakertown, PA homes for sale Quakertown, PA apartments for rent

Next on our list of Allentown suburbs is Quakertown, which is roughly a 14 mile drive into downtown. With a population of nearly 9,400, living in Quakertown is a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of Allentown. Don’t miss out on visiting Quakertown Memorial Park, stopping by the historic landmarks like Liberty Hall, and grabbing a meal at one of the many local restaurants once moving to the area.

#8: Nazareth

Median home price: $332,500 Average sale price per square foot: $192 Average rent for an apartment: $1,388 Distance from Allentown: 15 miles Nazareth, PA homes for sale Nazareth, PA apartments for rent

Last but not least on our list of best Allentown suburbs is Nazareth. About 6,100 people live in Nazareth, so you’ll have a fraction of Allentown’s population while remaining only 15 miles from the city. Be sure to check out the charming downtown Nazareth and explore Nazareth Borough Park once living in Nazareth.

Methodology: Whether a suburb was under a 15-mile drive from downtown Allentown. Median home sale price data and average rent price from the Redfin Data Center during December 2023. Median home sale price data and average rent price from the Redfin Data Center during December 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

Alison is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about housing affordability and home interior design ideas. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.

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