The temperature will inevitably sink to winter conditions with snow and ice and Delaware County Council has issued a reminder to residents that various county agencies offer additional support and resources to the homeless, elderly, and vulnerable residents.
County agencies are prepared to help residents cope with extreme weather conditions, from sheltering the homeless to reaching out to the elderly, the county said.
Here’s what’s available:
• The Delaware County Department of Human Services, Adult and Family Services partners with various agencies to offer additional services through the Homeless Services Coalition of Delaware County, a group of 90 individuals and organizations dedicated to providing services to the homeless. They also publish the Homeless Services Resource Guide that details a variety of services including shelters, housing, meals, treatment programs, and government services. Contact information: www.delcohsa.org/adultfamily.html or 610-713-2365.
• The County Office of Services for the Aging extends outreach to senior citizens, including having case managers check on seniors who may be vulnerable. Tips on how to stay
warm and safe during the winter are available on COSA’s informational weather line at 610-872-1558. Contact information: www.delcosa.org or 610-490-1300.
• Community Action Agency of Delaware County is the county’s anti-poverty agency and can assist residents with obtaining shelter and meals. Contact information: www.caadc.org or 610-874-8451.
• The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low-income families pay their heating bills. PECO also offers programs for people experiencing hardship, a low-income usage reduction program, and discounted rates for low-income families. Contact information: www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/LIHEAP.aspx, 1-866-857-7095, and if hearing impaired call 711, www.peco.com, 1-800-494-4000.
More key numbers to keep handy:
• Salvation Army, Chester Corps: 610-874-0423
• Community Action Agency: 610-874-8451
• Life Center of Eastern Delaware County: 610-734-5770
Residents are encouraged to register for the DelcoAlert notification system which alerts residents of weather emergencies such as road closures, power outages, and other extreme weather situations. Register for Delco Alert at www.delcopa.gov/delcoalert/delcoalert.html.
