Hosted by Lora Lewis, Philadelphia Focus introduces you to the people and organizations making a difference in our community, from health and safety issues to education, employment, and even entertainment opportunities. Philadelphia Focus looks for solutions and positive action to make our region a better place to call home.
Ed Lafferty, Public Affairs Specialist for the Social Security Administration discussed the agency’s efforts to reach vulnerable populations, those with housing insecurity, mental health issues or physical disabilities that create barriers to accessing benefits. He spoke about the new partnerships created with area faith-based and charitable organizations to help with connecting these people to funds. We also discussed the ongoing fraud problem which adversely affects older and immigrant citizens, he reminds us that the SSA does not call people unless they’re asked to do so. He also touched on drawing benefits before full age vesting – a common situation with so many older workers who lost their jobs during the pandemic, taking benefits early reduces the amount permanently. Finally, a look at popular baby names for the past year.