Checking in with past guests to see what has happened since their last appearance.   Debby Derricks, Director of Development at the Veteran’s Multi-Service Center shared that the center, serving those who served, has reopened its brick-and-mortar locations and added new facilities in Delaware and New Jersey, it has improved their direct service programs for vets dealing with housing , addiction, joblessness and mental health issues.  www.vmcenter.org

TODD LEISS, Traffic Incident Management Coordinator at Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission Assistant Director of Training at Respondersafety.com shared grim news, more emergency responders were killed in 2021 than in previous years.  He asked us to ‘just drive’ when behind the wheel and to visit respondersafety.com for driver responsibilities and tips and free training for emergency responders and highway and traffic crews to prevent accidents. 

TOM MAHON, Director of Marketing & Communications at Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia reported that they completed Oxford Green, a 20-unit affordable community in North Philly.  We discussed their community-building work and how new homeowners bring energy and emotional investment to a neighborhood. 

He explained that since the pandemic has kept volunteer builders at home, they have concentrated on keeping existing homeowners in their homes through their home repair services.  He also discussed their first sustained fund-raising campaign, We Build Together, aimed at raising 5 million dollars for Habitat programming.  Learn more at habitatphiladelphia.org

Zachary Sherman, Executive Director of PENNIE, The PA Health Exchange reminded us of an important deadline, January 15, that‘s the last date to enroll in affordable insurance for 2022 coverage beginning February 1.  He suggests anyone who is possibly losing coverage, looking for better coverage or financial assistance call or log in now to see what options are available.   Get information at PENNIE.COM

Finally, Ed Lafferty, Public Affairs Specialist at the Social Security Administration offered good news about the pandemic, their community outreach program, placing ‘civilian’ services in local community centers, churches or other providers, was not only successful in helping people with barriers to phone or online access, it helped the general public and will become their model going forward.  He reminded us to create and check your My Social Security and wished all born in 1960 an early happy birthday, 2022 will be the year they can start applying for retirement.  Visit ssa.gov to learn more about your benefits and resources.