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.
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 Carpenters' Hall 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 Philadelphia, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 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.
“We have been very pleased with Always Best Care Agency for the past year. Sue has”
“This is a 5 star home care company. Our aide Seth is very professional and”
“We have had wonderful aides. Agency has been responsive to our needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Most caring agency around. My husband needs total”
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us”
“Alway Best Care is always best!”
“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My”
“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My”
“I am a current client of this provider We used Always Best Care for my mother.”
“I couldn’t thank this Company enough for the services my Father had, it’s difficult to”
“The highlights for me is The boss man Bryant Greene, and most of his awesome”
“The highlights for me is The boss man Bryant Greene, and most of his awesome”
“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes”
“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes”
“Walked in to ask a few questions, and was kindly greeted as well as my”
“Always Best Care Senior Services of Philadelphia abides by the highest standards in the provision”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“Always Best Care Senior Services are a group of compassionate care givers and professionals. Use”
“I appreciate ABC of Bristol. They served me and my friend, Helen, at very difficult”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a very good providers from this”
“We have been very pleased with Always Best Care Agency for the past year. Sue has helped us with finding the perfect match for our mother’s needs. The caregivers that they screen are kind and capable, very professional, my mother glows with contentment when they arrive which puts us at ease as a family.”
“This is a 5 star home care company. Our aide Seth is very professional and caring. She does a great job making my life much easier. I would recommend Always Best Care Bristol to anyone.”
“We have had wonderful aides. Agency has been responsive to our needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Most caring agency around. My husband needs total care and the agency does a perfect job supplying us with the right caregivers.”
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I have spoken to at the agency have been extremely helpful but more importantly kind and understanding. I have gotten quick responses to any inquiries I have made. The caregiver has been more than flexible and provides reliable help for my mother. I am feeling confident my mother is getting quality care to help her stay in her home.”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us longer than we did. This was very sudden and in Gods hands I guess. Her last meal was the pasta you made. We tried it too. It was excellent. So you provided her favorite meal. Thank you for that. We would recommend you to anyone who is in need of such services. Be well.”
“Alway Best Care is always best!”
“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My Job So Far & My Clients. I Love How Flexible My Schedule Is Too. I'd Highly Recommend Getting A Job Here”
“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My Job So Far & My Clients. I Love How Flexible My Schedule Is Too. I'd Highly Recommend Getting A Job Here”
“I am a current client of this provider We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a few hours a week, they were very thorough in asking about my mother's condition, and what were the needs that were required. It's more like bathing, medication, and companionship. We used them for about a week.”
“I couldn’t thank this Company enough for the services my Father had, it’s difficult to trust others yet Always Best Care of Philadelphia did it with ease. We happily recommend them to our family and friends. Bryant and Co. truly care as if it was their own family. God Bless and May all your Staff be safe, they are in my prayers.”
“The highlights for me is The boss man Bryant Greene, and most of his awesome staff. Mr. Greene, his brother Al Billz and staff always looked out for me even when I was ill. I love them and Always Best Care to the moon and back! ????”
“The highlights for me is The boss man Bryant Greene, and most of his awesome staff. Mr. Greene, his brother Al Billz and staff always looked out for me even when I was ill. I love them and Always Best Care to the moon and back!”
“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes very compassionate to his workers and staff. If we need help and there's no caregiver available. Brian will step in. We also give our clients the best care possible. So proud to say Brian just opened up another office in Delaware. Doing an amazing job. I started work with this agency in 2012 when my mom became I'll. A good environment. I definitely would recommend this place of employment.”
“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes very compassionate to his workers and staff. If we need help and there's no caregiver available. Brian will step in. We also give our clients the best care possible. So proud to say Brian just opened up another office in Delaware. Doing an amazing job. I started work with this agency in 2012 when my mom became I'll. A good environment. I definitely would recommend this place of employment.”
“Walked in to ask a few questions, and was kindly greeted as well as my inquiries were satisfyingly met. ????”
“Always Best Care Senior Services of Philadelphia abides by the highest standards in the provision of in-home care.”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at home assisted by the caregivers from your company Always Best Care of Greater Bristol. This letter is a personal thank you from my father and the entire Ceuch family on how your caregivers treated and attended to my father during this time. The caregivers became part of our extended family who shared in countless family events resulting in beautiful lasting memories. Caregivers Frances Boateng, Jeremy Turner, and Yanice Hernandez were awesome in their care of my father. I want to especially acknowledge Francis as a person who went above and beyond his responsibility and became part of the Ceuch inner circle. It was not uncommon for Francis on his off days to stop by during a family picnic to say hello...he is truly loved by my father. Again, I want to thank you for the loving care your caregivers provided my father. I would highly recommend your company to anyone interested in having a caregiver attend to a loved one. Thanks again”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my step father, Daryl. It's unbelievable how the progression of his illness happened so quickly, however, Always Best Care was always ready to provide the level of care he needed as it increased. Most importantly, I'd like to thank his aide, Sue Malasics. She was wonderful to Daryl and took great care of his needs. I knew I did not have to worry with Sue there with him. She was always cooking wonderful homemade meals and desserts and I was happy to see how happy she made Daryl. I think she is a wonderful asset to Always Best Care. Should I know of anyone needing help in the future, I would recommend Always Best Care and Sue Malasics.”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure. My mother was also very demanding about her care and who she would allow into her home. After several attempts with various in-home care agencies my mother really responded well to Always Best Care Senior Services of Greater Bristol and we cant thank them enough for the high level of compassionate care they were able to provide during my moms final months.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal care assistant until placement in a quality skilled nursing facility became available. We reached out to home health care agencies in her local area but, by this point, had already worked with several agencies for med reminders for Barbara (and 24/7 care for our Mom in another area of CT) and were a bit skeptical that that we’d find one that could provide consistent quality of care.When I spoke with Rick Downey of Always Best Care Senior Services in Bristol, he conveyed both confidence in his knowledge of health care and empathy in understanding the frustrations that families experience when seeking quality care for their loved ones. We were next contacted by their care coordinator,Heather Kozikowski, who came to our sister’s home to conduct an assessment and further explain the services offered by Always Best Care.A further testament to the exceptional quality of Always Best Care is the service and care we’ve received after Barbara is no longer a client; our thanks to Always Best Care for the excellent care of our sister, and the peace-of-mind it afforded our family knowing that she was in such kind and competent hands!”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services are a group of compassionate care givers and professionals. Use them for all your personal needs Senior or younger. They get the job done!!!”
“I appreciate ABC of Bristol. They served me and my friend, Helen, at very difficult time. The office staff, social workers, and the aides were professional, caring, and reliable. Donna you are awesome....keep up the great work!!!! I would recommend this service to anyone.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a very good providers from this Company”
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.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
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.
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.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home 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:
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:
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 Fairmount Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
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 Volvr or visit Johnson House Historic Site, 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.
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:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
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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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.
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 Philadelphia, 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.
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:
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 Philadelphia, 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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
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 Philadelphia, 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.
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Zoo is bringing back its popular nature-inspired holiday light show LumiNature with some new features.LumiNature opens Nov. 20 and is open most nights through Jan. 3, 2026. Hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.Tickets are available online here, with prices varying by visit.This year's iteration of LumiNature will feature the grand opening of the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel.This new feature is a 110-foot-tall observation wheel with scenes of the more than a million twinkling lights that will...
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Zoo is bringing back its popular nature-inspired holiday light show LumiNature with some new features.
LumiNature opens Nov. 20 and is open most nights through Jan. 3, 2026. Hours are 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Tickets are available online here, with prices varying by visit.
This year's iteration of LumiNature will feature the grand opening of the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel.
This new feature is a 110-foot-tall observation wheel with scenes of the more than a million twinkling lights that will fill the zoo, as well as sights of the city skyline. Guests must be at least 32 inches tall to ride with a supervising adult. Each gondola can fit up to six guests and the ride lasts about seven minutes.
Also, new for this year, and joining the more than a dozen whimsical wildlife scenes come to light, are Santa’s Lodge, a cozy indoor space with the chance to say hello to the big man himself, and Jambi’s Solstice Saloon, the spot to chill along the river.
Favorite returning illuminated displays include the Penguin Prismatic show with a 40-foot-tall penguin shining with 40,000 lights and the 25-foot-tall pink flamingo tree, made entirely out of 1,500 lawn ornament flamingos.
Visitors can also bring their old Zoo Keys, or purchase a new one at the zoo’s gift shops, to turn on the magic in select areas.
"Winter at the Zoo is different and still a wonderful time to visit," Philadelphia Zoo President & CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman said. "This light show is designed for guests of all ages to connect with animals, each other, and the beauty of our planet during the holiday season. We’re really excited to have the addition of the Philly Zoo Pherris Wheel, which will stay at the Zoo through the 250th celebrations in 2026."
Highlights of this year’s event include, with added theatrical elements, in order of appearance, include:
This post is sponsored and contributed by Children's Scholarship Fund Philadelphia, a Patch Brand Partner.This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.In Philadelphia, schooling is at the top of many families’ lists of consideration when deciding where to live and grow. Parents often begin thinking about their students’ education from the get-go. A child’s potential shou...
This post is sponsored and contributed by Children's Scholarship Fund Philadelphia, a Patch Brand Partner.
This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.
In Philadelphia, schooling is at the top of many families’ lists of consideration when deciding where to live and grow. Parents often begin thinking about their students’ education from the get-go. A child’s potential should not be limited by their address if they live in an under-resourced neighborhood.
When you were thinking about where to settle down and build your life, what factors did you consider? Was a quality, safe school the top of your list? For many, the option to move for better educational opportunities isn't always feasible when their local schools are low-achieving.
According to one CSFP parent, Lateefah, “It was never an option for me to send Jordan [my daughter] to the public schools in my area. I wanted something better for her.”
But when Jordan was entering Kindergarten, an illness left Lateefah out of work. She began searching for ways to make a private education attainable for her daughter, and that’s when she found Children’s Scholarship Fund Philadelphia (CSFP).
CSFP made it possible for Lateefah to enroll her daughter in a school of her choice – one that met her academic needs, and didn’t limit her based on her zip code.
During Jordan’s K-8th grade experience at a CSFP partner school, she received a quality foundational education which drove her to focus on her academics – resulting in a GPA above 3.6 and a nomination to be part of the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), an organization that connects students with scholarship opportunities, leadership programs, volunteer activities, member events, career connections, partner offers, and a network.
Jordan graduated from her CSFP partner school in 2022 a well-rounded scholar. Now, she is a rising senior at a private school of her choosing. Jordan is dedicated to her studies and is exploring photography and culinary arts. As she looks to the future, her goal is to attend college and pursue a pre-Veterinary degree. She loves animals, saying, “Ever since I was a kid, I always wanted animals and even begged for a dog."
For nearly 25 years, CSFP has been transforming lives through quality education. CSFP is Pennsylvania’s largest and most diverse K-8 scholarship program, and the organization’s need-based scholarships are awarded by random lottery, ensuring that CSFP serves students from every corner of Philadelphia. Our program has turned possibility into reality for thousands of Philadelphia families. To date, the organization has awarded more than 90,000 scholarships equal to more than $147M in funding, empowering parents with the financial freedom to choose the right K-8 school for their child(ren).
Scholarships work.
A CSFP scholarship sets students on a path to success, with 95% of alumni attending their high school of choice and 75% of the 2023 class enrolling in college. But joining CSFP is about more than tuition; it’s an invitation into a supportive community. Our families connect with one another, explore cultural events across Philadelphia, and access enriching summer camps, ensuring every child has the opportunity to unlock their unique potential. You can provide students and families with more opportunities to succeed. Join CSFP to provide quality, safe education today!
This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.
The Christmas Village is back this year with a Christmas Pyramid, inspired by traditional wooden pyramids from Germany's Ore Mountains.PHILADELPHIA — Back again for 2025 is Philadelphia's beloved and iconic Christmas Village.But visitors this year will find a new, eye-catching centerpiece: a 30-foot tall Christmas Pyramid inspired by traditional wooden pyramids from Germany’s Ore Mountains.The village will run from Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, to Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. in LOVE Park, City Hall’s Courtya...
PHILADELPHIA — Back again for 2025 is Philadelphia's beloved and iconic Christmas Village.
But visitors this year will find a new, eye-catching centerpiece: a 30-foot tall Christmas Pyramid inspired by traditional wooden pyramids from Germany’s Ore Mountains.
The village will run from Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, to Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. in LOVE Park, City Hall’s Courtyard, and the North Broad Section. Previews will run on Nov. 22 and Nov. 23.
Hours are noon to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and noon to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. For Thanksgiving Day, the village will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and noon to 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
The market will be closed Nov. 24, Nov. 25, and Nov. 26.
The Christmas Pyramid will join attractions guests have come to know and love, including the Ferris wheel, carousel, kids train, tens of thousands of twinkling lights, and rows of wooden booths filled with international and local vendors.
The Festival of Trees fundraiser at the LOVE Park Welcome Center will return with a record-breaking two dozen trees to raise money for Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Santa Claus will return in the middle of the Festival of Trees for wish-taking and heart-warming photo opportunities.
In collaboration with Terrarium Therapy, guests can get creative at the Holiday Greenery Workshop on Wednesdays.
Food lovers will find charcoal grilled bratwursts, freshly melted Swiss cheese sandwiches, and some new food booths that include loaded baked potatoes and churros.
Beverages include the market’s hot Glühwein (hot mulled wine) by local Pennsylvania winery Mazza Wines, spiked hot beverages featuring local Boardroom Spirits, and kid-friendly offerings such as hot chocolate and apple cider. This year's village also feature the addition of new craft cocktails at the Snowflake Cocktail Bar with Boardroom Spirits.
For shopping, more than 120 vendors in wooden booths will be selling wares, good, and services at all three locations. Famous German vendor Käthe Wohlfahrt returns with a giant heated tent filled with an array of exquisite glass ornaments, nutcrackers, pyramids and limited-edition holiday decorations.
And themed weekends with live bands, choirs and performers, and a visit from the authentic Christkind from Germany will keep guests entertained.
Check out these special events coming to the village this season:
Christmas Village Christkind Arrival and Pyramid Lighting Ceremony — Nov. 30, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage and Pyramid
Meet the original Christkind from Nuremberg, Germany. She will be back to open the market with her traditional prologue on Nov. 30. Right after the Christkind Ceremony on stage, join the excitement as the new Pyramid shines for the very first time, with a festive countdown to its grand illumination. Experience the magic and witness this memorable moment, marking the start of the holiday season at Christmas Village.
Festival of Trees to benefit CHOP — Preview Weekend Nov. 29 and Nov. 30; grand opening and ribbon cutting on Dec. 1, open daily to Christmas Eve; LOVE Park former Visitor Center
Hours:
Christmas Village in Philadelphia is proud to partner once again with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for the third annual Festival of Trees at the LOVE Park Welcome Center. This year’s celebration will shine brighter than ever, featuring two dozen beautifully decorated trees and festive holiday spirit - all in support of CHOP’s life-changing mission.
Admission is free.
Christmas Village Family Weekend — Dec. 6, noon to 9 p.m.; Dec. 7, noon to 8 p.m., Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
The perfect family destination is the Family Weekend on Dec. 6 and Dec. 7. Dedicated to the youngest guests, this event features a variety of exciting activities just for kids. Meet village mascot, Phil the Reindeer, enchanting princesses, and strong superheroes. Create unforgettable moments together and capture these precious moments. Everyone is encouraged to bring the whole family, even your furry best friend on four legs.
Christmas Village’s famous German American Weekend — Dec. 13, noon to 9 p.m.; Dec. 14, noon to 8 p.m., Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
German American Weekend, presented by the German Consulate General in New York, returns to Christmas Village on December 13 and 14, 2025, with a lively showcase of German culture. Guests can savor authentic Bratwurst, enjoy spirited performances from local dance groups - such as the United German Hungarian Schuhplattlers, Auerhahn Schuhplattler Verein, and GTV Almrausch - in full traditional attire, and soak in the festive atmosphere. On Sunday, the fun continues with classic German games, including the beloved Beerstein holding contest and a Bratwurst eating challenge, making for a weekend full of tradition, flavor, and excitement.
Christmas Village first Annual Ugly Sweater Contest — Dec. 19, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Christmas Village LOVE Park Stage
Participate in the first ever Ugly Sweater Contest on National Ugly Sweater Day, Dec. 19. Christmas Village will host a spirited Ugly Sweater Contest, inviting visitors to embrace the fun and creativity of the holiday season. Participants are encouraged to wear their most festive, quirky, or delightfully over-the-top sweaters for a chance to win exciting prizes. This lighthearted competition promises plenty of laughter and holiday cheer, adding to the magical atmosphere of the Village. Look for local celebrity judges and prizes too.
Christmas Village in Philadelphia is open to the public, with no charge to visit the markets, with food and drink pay-as-you-go.
"We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to Christmas Village in Philadelphia 2025 presented by Bank of America for our 18th season," Christmas Village President Thomas Bauer said. "This year will be especially memorable as we debut our new traditional German Christmas Pyramid - a multi-level wooden tower adorned with lights, traditional and Philly favorite figures, and festive decorations. Standing tall at the heart of Christmas Village, it will bring an authentic touch of German holiday tradition for all visitors to enjoy. It is a project we have been working on for many years, and we can’t wait to see it take over everyone’s social media feeds. With the beloved Christkind returning once again and our continued partnership with CHOP for the ‘Festival of Trees’ fundraiser, we look forward to bringing families and friends together to create lasting memories. We are excited to make this holiday season unforgettable and unique. A sincere thank you to the City of Philadelphia and our partners for their unwavering support."
The Department of Veterans Affairs now has an enormous amount of paperwork to correct after a staffer “blindly” approved thousands of disability claims without properly reviewing them for close to two years. Experts said that some veterans whose claims were caught up in the employee’s approval blitz actually missed out on benefits, and its unclear if — or how — the staffer’s rubber-stamping might impact other vets’ wallets.The VA acknowledged but did not answer repeated questions from Task &am...
The Department of Veterans Affairs now has an enormous amount of paperwork to correct after a staffer “blindly” approved thousands of disability claims without properly reviewing them for close to two years. Experts said that some veterans whose claims were caught up in the employee’s approval blitz actually missed out on benefits, and its unclear if — or how — the staffer’s rubber-stamping might impact other vets’ wallets.
The VA acknowledged but did not answer repeated questions from Task & Purpose on whether veterans who received improperly approved benefits from the VSR’s error-ridden approval blitz would be required to pay them back .
Between sometime in 2022 and late 2024, a senior veterans service representative, or VSR, in Philadelphia approved more than 85,000 claims, a VA Office of Inspector General report released last week alleged, sometimes spending only minutes on each as they approved hundreds of packets a day.
After the news broke early last week, some military or veteran-centric social media pages lauded the VSR as a “hero,” seeming to assume that the VSR only approved claims that would get former troops more money – and that they might not have to pay it back if it was issued in error.
But veterans experts told Task & Purpose that such a high volume of erroneous claims could have serious downstream consequences for those whose claims the VSR made such short work of. While some claims were approved that should not have been, other veterans were underpaid when the VA employee ignored additional claims or special circumstances in their packages.
“I’m more concerned about that,” Jim Marszalek, a Marine veteran with 25 years of experience at the Disabled American Veterans, told Task & Purpose in an interview on Monday.
“Let’s say the veteran filed five claims, and the decision only noted four of them,” said Marszalek, who is the assistant executive director for DAV’s Washington, D.C. office. “I’m more concerned that they didn’t decide the fifth one.”
A spokesperson for the VA said that the agency was working on the OIG’s recommendation to “correct those errors to the extent possible” and evaluate how it can better oversee “authorization rate outliers.”
The IG’s report estimated that the VSR’s errors resulted in $2.2 million in improper payments. The report said that errors resulted in both overpayments and underpayments.
According to the OIG report, starting in 2022, the VSR in the Philadelphia VA Regional Office began approving more than 85,000 veteran disability claims — nearly 20 times the national average for their role.
The staff member, who was unnamed in the report, spent an average of less than five minutes reviewing each claim. Senior members of the Veterans Benefits Administration, or VBA, began noticing the “unusually high authorization rates” sometime in 2023, according to the report, but inadequately responded to the issue.
“It is not physically possible to do that many authorizations and perform the real functions of the job,” a senior administrator told the OIG in 2023. The inspector general received a hotline tip in July 2024, which triggered an investigation into the staff member.
In some cases, the VSR did not even open documents to review the claims, flying through roughly 150 claims a day. Regional VA leaders attempted to impose a limit of eight to 10 authorizations for this VSR, but the employee often continued to approve disability claims at lightning speed.
“That’s disturbing – they knew about it,” Marszalek said. The senior VSR, experts told Task & Purpose, was the last in a line of disability claim processors.
“Those couple reviewers who really weren’t doing it, someone’s got to hold them accountable and make sure they’re actually doing the job,” Marszalek added.
The report said that of the 15,600 claims the VSR made in a six-month period last year, 84% contained at least one error based on a sample size of 32 cases, which resulted in improper payments to veterans, effects on other benefits and inaccurate VBA data. Some benefits claimed by veterans were ignored altogether.
The report also said that individual quality reviews did not accurately reflect the senior VSR’s work because regulators only looked at less than 1 percent of their work.
Will veterans be on the hook to pay back?
Marszalek said that “they could attempt to come after you for any money they erroneously overpaid you,” but added that it is unlikely in this case. A common solution that the VA has used in other overpayment cases, he said, has been to reduce a mistaken disability rating – which can be appealed by the veteran – to the entitled level without the VA requesting backpay. He noted that recoupment often stems from veterans fraudulently submitting paperwork for claims.
Being caught up in the Philadelphia mass-approvals, he said, “is not the veterans’ fault at all.” Veterans concerned about their status, he said, should use a veteran service organization such as DAV to review paperwork, file appeals or generally get support.
However, the VA also has a history of variously collecting overpayments, lawmakers have warned as recently as this spring, and the subsequent debt has often left veterans in a financially stressful and precarious situation.
“Overpayments can result in VA establishing debts that veterans owe back to VA, which can create a paperwork nightmare for them and their families,” Rep. Morgan Luttrell, who chairs a House subcommittee on VA disability assistance, said in an oversight hearing in May. “But current law allows for VA to either cancel these overpayment debts, or waive collection of those debts.”
Luttrell said that the VA issued at least $5.1 billion in overpayments between 2021 and 2024 and did not collect $677 million of that money. In one example included in the IG report, the Philadelphia VSR’s oversight led to one veteran receiving $14,300 in overpayment.
“It could be catastrophic for a veteran,” said Carl Bedell, an Army veteran and lawyer who has practiced veteran law for 16 years. “If the VA were to come back and say, ‘now you owe us for however many years of disability payment that you were not entitled to,’ that could be an absolutely catastrophic event for a veteran that’s already living day to day.”
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