PHILANTHROPY AT THE PHILADELPHIA PROTESTANT HOME

When a conference of German Protestant ministers of Philadelphia called a special meeting early in the spring of 1889 in the hall of the German branch of the Y.M.C.A. at 12th Street and Girard Avenue to consider the social conditions and urgent needs of the day, they realized they there was a great need for housing for the frail and elderly men and women in their community. So, at a general meeting called on Easter Monday, April 22, 1889 in Zion’s German Reformed Church, The Philadelphia German Protestant Home for the Aged was founded.

A number of applications from aged persons who were seeking shelter were received. There was, however, no funds and as yet no Home. When Mr. F. A. Poth met with the Rev. Berlemann, President of the Board, to learn of their plight, Mr. Poth at once offered his home at 631 North 5th Street, rent free, and added a gift of $500.00 to begin their important work.

The Home was incorporated on March 4th, 1890, and 631 N. 5th Street welcomed its first 15 guests. Before one year passed, it became apparent that the accommodations were inadequate to meet the growing demands. The Board and the Ladies Auxiliary worked hard to create a sizeable bank account to purchase a larger dwelling at 529 York Avenue, which they soon outgrew as well.

In the meantime, the Vogler legacy of $5,000 and a generous bequest from the Elizabeth Bergdoll estate were received and a tract of land of almost fourteen acres and costing $14,000 was purchased. On Monday, May 22, 1899, the cornerstone was laid, and the structure was completed on November 23, 1899 where The Philadelphia Protestant Home is located today.

Throughout our history, PPh has been fortunate to be the beneficiary of many gifts, allowing us to provide quality care to more than 600 seniors. Since our doors opened, PPh has granted benevolent (free) care to hundreds of seniors who have outlived their resources.

As you read through these pages, you will see that there are many ways in which you can help.