abc-logo
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

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Norristown, PA

Home Care Norristown, 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 Selma Mansion 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 Norristown, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Norristown, PA

location Service Areas

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.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Alway Best Care is always best!”

Errol W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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 ☺”

No P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Carri A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Carrianne W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Barbara L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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!”

Kia M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Betty W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Roger B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Walked in to ask a few questions, and was kindly greeted as well as my inquiries were satisfyingly met. ????”

Jonathan W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides excellent personal service for my Mom. They are always in contact about changes or concerns. They truly do care and it shows. They live the Always Best Care name every day. I would recommend them for sure.”

christopher G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services of Philadelphia abides by the highest standards in the provision of in-home care.”

Sheila R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been tremendous. The caregivers are well trained and very considerate. Thanks to my infirmity, I have unique care needs but ABC has been able to provide that care and even go above and beyond in their efforts to care for me. I don’t know what I would do without them. If you’re in need of care, this is the agency to call.”

James M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best is truly a company that distinguishes itself from the other companies in its personal attention to make the client totally satisfied. Excellent communication is another reason you feel so secure. I never had a moment of frustration or worry. I can't recommend David and his staff enough!!! Karen in Plymouth Meeting”

Karen G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Love what I heard about the company. Champion Care is important for seniors.”

Caprice C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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!!!”

Sandra R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Tanya R.

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

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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 Norristown, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Gardino Park Norristown 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 Norristown, 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 Giacomo's Restaurant or visit CASTNER HOUSE, 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 Norristown, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Norristown, 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.

Request More Information vector

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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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:

  • Brandywine Living at Senior Suites
  • NORRITON SQUARE NURSING AND REHABILITATION CENTER
  • Markley Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center
  • Towne Manor East
  • Golden Living Center
  • Brightview Senior Living
Home Care Norristown, 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 Norristown, 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

lm-right-arrow
01

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

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

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 Norristown, 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 Norristown, PA

Latest News in Norristown, PA

700 Residential Units, Offices Proposed At Norristown State Hospital

NORRISTOWN, PA — Some details have emerged on the newly proposed redevelopment for Norristown State Hospital, which officials are calling the largest project in the municipality's history.The developer, PRDC properties, is calling for a sprawling multi-use residential, business, and retail area on the 70 acre swath that was deeded to the municipality and county from the state last year.A total of 728 residential units, including 446 townhomes and 282 apartments, are in the initial proposal, PRDC said.There is also ...

NORRISTOWN, PA — Some details have emerged on the newly proposed redevelopment for Norristown State Hospital, which officials are calling the largest project in the municipality's history.

The developer, PRDC properties, is calling for a sprawling multi-use residential, business, and retail area on the 70 acre swath that was deeded to the municipality and county from the state last year.

A total of 728 residential units, including 446 townhomes and 282 apartments, are in the initial proposal, PRDC said.

There is also roughly 70,000 square feet of commercial space, and what they're calling an "office/industrial tech complex" that they're hoping would attract major employers. The tech office space would cover about 272,000 square feet, according to the latest estimate.

Norristown officials say they will host multiple public meetings to provide feedback and input and to help shape the work.

Find out what's happening in Norristownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"These meetings will be the first of many opportunities for our residents to shape the biggest redevelopment project in the municipality's history," Norristown Municipal Council President Tom Lepera said. "Community input is key for this once in a lifetime opportunity to bring new housing and employment opportunities to Norristown."

See previous coverage: 'Momentous Day For Norristown' As State Hospital Opens For Development

The meetings will be held on March 14 at 7 p.m. and March 20 at noon at municipal hall. PRDC's Tony Mara will be on hand to present the proposal formally, and gather feedback.

In the past, discussions of a mixed use apartment building, retail development, and more public space, including parks, has been floated for the state hospital grounds.

Regardless of what comes to the property, Norristown will see a huge boon in real estate and other local taxes, possibly up to tens of millions of dollars.

Gov. Wolf's administration originally reached an agreement in December 2017 with the municipality to vacate two buildings on the state hospital grounds by 2022, opening the door for the long-discussed possibility of redevelopment.

The announcement came after controversy stewed over the state was forced to begin construction at the state hospital to add more beds following a lawsuit. In a settlement with ACLU in June 2017, the state agreed to create 110 new spots, including 50 at Norristown, after the civil rights organization alleged that individuals with severe mental illness had "languished" for extensive periods of time in jail cells when they should have been receiving care.

DHS previously stated that due to the settlement, the state faces millions in fines if it does not provide the needed space in a timely manner. Norristown was reluctant to comply with the state's demands until the state put together a plan for the future deeding of the hospital to local authorities, which it did in 2023.

The state hospital will remain open into the future at a lower capacity, with altered uses for some of its buildings. There remain 137 beds for forensic patients, and a new forensic facility began construction in 2022.

What to do in Norristown, PA

Featured EventMar24CONCERT Messiah 2.0 Experience the music!Sunday, 7:00 pmLower Gwynedd-Ambler-Whitpain, PALocal EventMar24...

Featured Event

Mar24

CONCERT Messiah 2.0 Experience the music!

Sunday, 7:00 pmLower Gwynedd-Ambler-Whitpain, PA

Local Event

Mar24

Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday, 12:00 pmNorristown, PA

Local Event

Mar24

Messiah 2.0

Sunday, 7:00 pmNorristown, PA

Monday, March 25

Featured Event

Mar25

Interested in A Capella Singing

Monday, 7:00 pmNorristown, PA

Tuesday, March 26

Featured Event

Mar26

Know Your Medicare Options

Tuesday, 6:30 pmLower Gwynedd-Ambler-Whitpain, PA

Friday, March 29

Local Event

Mar29

Saturday, March 30

Featured Event

Mar30

Free Anger Management Self Test

Saturday, 10:00 amMontgomeryville-Lansdale, PA

Local Event

Mar30

Bridgeport Founders' Day 2024

Saturday, 12:00 pmNorristown, PA

Local Event

Mar30

CHOP and GWCCC STEM Day

Saturday, 12:00 pmNorristown, PA

Sunday, March 31

Local Event

Mar31

FBCN Easter Sunrise Service & Easter Celebration Service

Sunday, 6:30 amNorristown, PA

Local Event

Mar31

Thursday, April 4

Local Event

Apr4

"tick, tick...BOOM!"

Thursday, 7:30 pmNorristown, PA

Saturday, April 6

Local Event

Apr6

Fancy Nancy Mermaid Ballet and The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra

Saturday, 1:00 amChestnut Hill-Mt. Airy, PA

Monday, April 8

Local Event

Apr8

Kidz Cafe

Monday, 5:30 pmNorristown, PA

Tuesday, April 9

Local Event

Apr9

Free Cancer Screening - Mammograms

Tuesday, 9:00 amNorristown, PA

Saturday, April 20

Local Event

Apr20

The Philadelphia Swag Experience

Saturday, 7:00 pmNorristown, PA

Saturday, April 27

Local Event

Apr27

Spring Turkey Dinner / Craft & Vendor Fair - AUGUSTUS LUTHERAN CHURCH

Saturday, 4:00 pmPerkiomen Valley, PA

Local Event

Apr27

Norristown Maenner-Chor Presents COMEDY NIGHT

Saturday, 7:00 pmNorristown, PA

Thursday, May 2

Local Event

May2

Twilight Wish “Week of Wishes” Event

Thursday, 12:00 amNorristown, PA

Friday, May 24

New Zoning Codes, Localized Response Needed For Montco Homeless Crisis

NORRISTOWN, PA — The homelessness crisis in Montgomery County requires a more localized response, increased partnerships between government and nonprofits with available beds, and changing zoning laws, county officials say.The insights are from the Montgomery County Homelessness Task Force's latest report, which aims to address the root causes of a crisis that has proliferated in the regio...

NORRISTOWN, PA — The homelessness crisis in Montgomery County requires a more localized response, increased partnerships between government and nonprofits with available beds, and changing zoning laws, county officials say.

The insights are from the Montgomery County Homelessness Task Force's latest report, which aims to address the root causes of a crisis that has proliferated in the region and across many parts of the country in the wake of the pandemic and related social instability.

“Homelessness is a reality for many men, women and families that not only impacts those living without steady shelter, but also those in our neighborhoods and communities," Lansdale Borough Manager and taskforce member John Ernst said. "It has a ripple effect through the entire society, and it benefits us all to break the cycle."

The key findings stressed the need for more beds to accommodate the homeless population in the short term. With basic shelter, a homeless individual can begin taking steps to get permanent shelter, benefits, and even employment.

The task force recommended a localized response in partnership with both community organizations and individual municipalities to "strategically place emergency short-term housing and mobile services for the unhoused throughout the county."

Find out what's happening in Norristownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Four municipalities have already signed on to such "implementation" plans to provide additional shelters: Lansdale, Lower Merion, Upper Moreland, and West Norriton.

The task force noted that changing zoning codes were required in many areas to allow nonprofits to provide shelter for the homeless. In some places, churches are prohibited from doing this by code. Improved zoning also will allow for the repurposing empty or abandoned buildings, which make way for developing more housing at below market rates.

Homelessness numbers have been steadily growing for years. The pandemic and inflation only exacerbated underlying systemic issues like income inequality and an insufficient safety net, and society's most vulnerable are paying the price.

The county is trying, but officials put the crisis simply in last year's report: "systemic drivers into homelessness have been stronger than the ability to quickly re-house households experiencing homelessness." And numbers could get worse.

According to the Montgomery County Planning Commission, there are only 37 affordable rental units per 100 households making below $35,000 a year countywide. Moreover, more than 65 percent of renter households below the $35,000 a year threshold pay more than 50 percent of their monthly income toward rent and utilities.

Two new Code Blue sites, providing emergency shelter during cold weather emergencies, have been established in the past year. The county has also applied $30 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding, helping to create new affordable housing units, shelters, outreach programs, and more.

The task force included former county Commissioner Ken Lawrence and 46 representatives from across various leadership positions around the county.

Crews working to repair water main break in Norristown; Montco courthouse, several roads closed

NORRISTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- A large water main break in Norristown has closed down several roads Monday morning. The Montgomery County courthouse, as well as several other county offices, are also closed.The break happened around 3 a.m. at the intersection of W. Penn Street and Cherry Street. Water is said to be flowing down W. Penn Street.The break led to traffic backups as water went gushing onto busy roads, like Markley Street.Public works trucks are on the scene spreading salt on the street to try and prevent ...

NORRISTOWN, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- A large water main break in Norristown has closed down several roads Monday morning. The Montgomery County courthouse, as well as several other county offices, are also closed.

The break happened around 3 a.m. at the intersection of W. Penn Street and Cherry Street. Water is said to be flowing down W. Penn Street.

The break led to traffic backups as water went gushing onto busy roads, like Markley Street.

Public works trucks are on the scene spreading salt on the street to try and prevent the water from freezing.

The force of the water cracked the asphalt and turned to ice on roads and sidewalks due to below freezing temperatures.

Police have closed down a number of streets in the area due to icy roads, including the northbound lanes out of King of Prussia. Major delays are expected.

"Now I have to walk up through this ice toward Montgomery," said Ronnie Cochran, from Willow Grove. "It's a mess."

The county courthouse, county offices and garage at One Montgomery Plaza, the county family court facility at 321 Swede Street and the probation office at 408 Cherry Street are all closed Monday, officials say.

County staff working in those buildings will be working remotely, if possible.

A water main break in the area of Cherry and Penn Streets in Norristown will force the closure of the following #MontcoPA facilities today, Jan. 22: - County Courthouse- One Montgomery Plaza- County Family Court - Supervision Services Adult Probationhttps://t.co/hOR33utXkl pic.twitter.com/fZrk8Lo5i0

— Montgomery County, PA (@MontcoPA) January 22, 2024

All other county facilities, including all Magisterial District Courts and the Youth Center Court facility, remain operational and open to the public.

The Cherry Street and Markley Street parking facilities will remain open and available.

Cochran works nearby and says there was another water main break a few weeks ago.

"This is the second time, but the first time it was down on Main Street where it was broken and now here," he said. "This time it's too cold. The last one didn't freeze up like this, it wasn't icy."

Officials said work to repair the water main break is expected to last most of the day.

'Momentous Day For Norristown' As State Hospital Opens For Development

NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County and Norristown officials are celebrating the official opening of a request for proposals to develop the 68 acre swath of Norristown State Hospital land deeded to the county just over a year ago.The land has long been considered a golden ticket for the local economy and last year's transfer of the property from the state to county and local authorities marked the end of years of negotiations and decades of speculation.“This is a momentous day for Norristown," Council President ...

NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County and Norristown officials are celebrating the official opening of a request for proposals to develop the 68 acre swath of Norristown State Hospital land deeded to the county just over a year ago.

The land has long been considered a golden ticket for the local economy and last year's transfer of the property from the state to county and local authorities marked the end of years of negotiations and decades of speculation.

“This is a momentous day for Norristown," Council President Tom Lepera said. "This is our chance to reposition ourselves in the regional marketplace. Something like this comes along the way and it gives us an opportunity to change the narrative in Norristown, so it’s a big deal."

Now that the request for proposals is formally out, developers have the next several months to submit their proposals to the Montgomery County Redevelopment Authority and the municipality. It remains unclear what exactly the future could hold for the site, but according to local leaders, that's part of the excitement.

“This isn’t a community with its hand out; It’s a community with its hand out to shake hands and create partners,” State Rep. Matt Bradford said in a statement. "This is only possible because of a promise made five years ago by Gov. Wolf that this day would come. It did not come soon enough for a community that needs rateables desperately. The plans and the vision ahead warms my heart."

In the past, discussions of a mixed use apartment building, retail development, and more public space, including parks, has been floated for the state hospital grounds.

Regardless of what comes to the property, Norristown will see a huge boon in real estate and other local taxes, possibly up to tens of millions of dollars.

Gov. Wolf's administration originally reached an agreement in December 2017 with the municipality to vacate two buildings on the state hospital grounds by 2022, opening the door for the long-discussed possibility of redevelopment.

The announcement came after controversy stewed over the state was forced to begin construction at the state hospital to add more beds following a lawsuit. In a settlement with ACLU in June 2017, the state agreed to create 110 new spots, including 50 at Norristown, after the civil rights organization alleged that individuals with severe mental illness had "languished" for extensive periods of time in jail cells when they should have been receiving care.

DHS previously stated that due to the settlement, the state faces millions in fines if it does not provide the needed space in a timely manner. Norristown was reluctant to comply with the state's demands until the state put together a plan for the future deeding of the hospital to local authorities, which it did in 2023.

The state hospital will remain open into the future at a lower capacity, with altered uses for some of its buildings. There remain 137 beds for forensic patients, and a new forensic facility began construction in 2022.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.