1. The Women’s Auxiliary of St. Edmond’s Home for Children purchased a house in November 2017 to use as a Community Home. In 2020, renovations were completed, and three young women from St. Edmond’s Home moved to their new house at the end of July! This is the first Community Home that St. Edmond’s has opened. It enables the auxiliary to provide a true continuum of care for the individuals who are over 21 but have not found adult placement to meet their medically complex needs. The home has been fully renovated to provide accessibility consistent with the American Disabilities Act requirements. Renovations included combining two of the bathrooms into one large accessible bathroom, widening doorways, creating a concrete wheelchair ramp to the front door, and providing a lift from the garage to the living area among others. The Women’s Auxiliary of St. Edmond’s Home raised the funds necessary to purchase the cottage through the wonderful support of donors. Each year a Gala is held to honor those who have been incredibly generous to SEH and to raise money for the children. On Friday, October 23, 2020 a Blessing and Dedication was held at St. Philomena Cottage. James Amato, Secretary for Catholic Human Sevices of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Denise Clofine, St. Edmond’s Home Administrator, The Most Reverend John J. McIntyre, Robin Conicella, Women’s Auxiliary President, and Women’s Auxiliary members Carolyn Slota, Marti Rodgers and Chere Onofrio paused for a photo at the event. The Most Reverend John J. McIntyre led the blessing and dedication service.

2. The new residents and their caregivers gathered for a photo during the blessing and dedication service.

3. The Nimoityn family, Phil, Hillary and Harry posed for a family photo with one of the new residents and their family member, Zoe Nimoityn.

4. Luncheon was served on the newly renovated deck!

5. SEH Administrator Denise Clofine and Women’s Auxiliary members, Carolyn Slota, who is the incoming president of the group, and Chere Onofrio admired the comfort and livability of the newly renovated living room after the blessing and dedication service