Students from Saint Monica School Lift the Spirits of Homebound Parishioners

Last week, homebound parishioners who are served by the Saint Monica Eldercare Program of Catholic Housing and Community Services (CHCS) eagerly awaited cards, flowers, and candy from their “Prayer Partners” at Saint Monica School in South Philadelphia. Throughout the school year, students write notes and create beautiful handmade cards and gifts that lift the spirits of homebound seniors in the parish community.

The “Prayer Partner” program has been a parish tradition for more than twelve years. The program helps to weave together younger and older parishioners, allowing communication between their generations. One student who personally delivers the gifts with his classmates after school said, “They can’t get outside and they can’t talk to people so when we write to them it makes them feel better.” This program enriches the lives of students as well as the lives of the homebound parishioners who participate. The older adults are grateful to the children and often reciprocate by writing thank you notes or sending snacks for the classrooms, often delivered by care partners from the Saint Monica Eldercare Program.

CHCS serves older adults in parishes throughout the Archdiocese. Dedicated social workers help older adults to access services that allow them to age safely in their homes within their parish communities. To learn more about the Parish Based Programs, please visit https://chcsphiladelphia.org/parish-eldercare-programs/.