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The Delaware County Weekly
Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!
—— The December 13, 2024 (151st Edition) ——
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George W. Hill Correctional Facility Announces $769,825 Grant to Enhance Reentry Programs | |
The George W. Hill (GWH) Correctional Facility is excited to announce the receipt of a $769,825 grant from the Office of Justice Programs (OJP). This competitive federal grant, approved by Delaware County Council during its December 11 Regular Council meeting, will support critical enhancements to substance use disorder (SUD) reentry programs for individuals transitioning from incarceration at GWH to the community.
“This grant is a game-changer for Delaware County,” said County Council Member Kevin Madden. “By providing the resources necessary to address mental health and substance use challenges, we are not only improving outcomes for individuals but also strengthening the overall safety and well-being of our community.”
For individuals grappling with substance use and mental health challenges, the grant provides an opportunity for comprehensive and targeted support during a critical period in their lives—a return to the community from incarceration. By addressing these needs through tailored reentry planning, enhanced treatment services, and coordinated care, the facility aims to reduce barriers to recovery and rehabilitation. These efforts will help individuals build a foundation for long-term success while reducing the risk of recidivism.
The funding will directly support the County’s goal of reducing recidivism and fostering a continuum of care for individuals with substance use and mental health challenges. It will also strengthen collaboration between GWH, behavioral health providers, and community organizations.
“This grant will allow us to provide critical health services to individuals struggling with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders,” said Warden Laura Williams. “These funds will enhance our ability to offer comprehensive care, helping people in our custody rebuild their lives and successfully reintegrate into their communities.”
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The grant, fully funded by the federal government with no County match required, will enable the Correctional Facility to expand its staff and services, including:
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A Mental Health Coordinator: This position will focus on pre-release planning and post-release coordination for individuals with mental health needs, working alongside case managers and treatment providers.
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A Program Coordinator: Responsible for managing the SUD reentry program, this role includes tracking program data, evaluating outcomes, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure evidence-based approaches.
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A Reentry Planner: Tasked with developing comprehensive reentry plans, the planner will coordinate services such as treatment, housing, and other supports to ensure successful reintegration.
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Transportation Assistance: Funding will help program participants access treatment, medical appointments, and other essential services.
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Mandatory Training: Grant funding will also cover staff training to deliver high-quality reentry services.
“I want to thank Millennium Strategies for their invaluable expertise in managing the grant application process, as well as my George W. Hill team to include Deputy Warden Dele Faly, Substance Use-Mental Health Administrator Pat O’Connor, Health Services Administrator Kristen Grady, the Wellpath MAT team and Sandy Garrison from the Delaware County Department of Human Services for their unwavering support in making this possible,” Williams added.
This initiative underscores Delaware County’s commitment to fostering a humane and effective justice system.
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“This represents a real success story, and I’m proud that under the leadership of Warden Williams, Delaware County became one of the first counties to provide all three forms of opioid treatment,” Council Member Kevin Madden said, referring to the three FDA-approved treatments—Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone—that reduce withdrawal symptoms, block opioid effects, and support long-term recovery. “That’s something to highlight. This is life-saving work.”
The project period for this initiative will run from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2027, with the expectation that federal funding may continue beyond 2027.
By prioritizing rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, and strengthening reentry services, the County is working to create safer communities while providing individuals with the tools they need to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. It reflects a broader vision of justice—one that emphasizes compassion, opportunity, and long-term success for everyone involved.
Job listings will be posted on the Delaware County website at DelcoPA.Gov/Jobs and the George W. Hill Correctional Facility website in the coming weeks.
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Delaware County’s Festival of Lights Continues with 2nd Weekend of Delco Flair and Fare Nights | |
The 49th Annual Festival of Lights at Rose Tree Park is in full swing, celebrating nearly five decades as Delaware County’s most cherished holiday tradition. Featuring over 120,000 lights across more than 100 illuminated trees and displays—including candy canes, illuminated penguins, and Santa’s reindeer—the festival transforms the park into a dazzling winter wonderland nightly from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., running through January 4, 2025.
This weekend, December 14-15, marks the 2nd of two weekends for the festival’s new Delco Flair and Fare Nights, offering live entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, and libations from Brick & Brew Pub on both nights. Each evening features unique performances and activities, making it the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends.
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Saturday, December 14. The Upper Darby Summer Stage Shooting Stars will present a preview of their upcoming Holiday Spectacular. This fun-filled showcase, featuring talented students from 18 local high schools, combines festive songs and dazzling choreography to capture the magic of the season.
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Sunday, December 15. The Silvertones from Strath Haven High School, an elite choir, will perform their holiday concert, spreading seasonal cheer with their beautiful harmonies.
While Delco Flair and Fare Nights conclude this weekend, the Festival of Lights continues nightly from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. through January 4, 2025. Admission and parking are free, and the park welcomes friendly, leashed dogs.
For weather updates or changes, text DELCOPARKS to 888777 or visit the Parks and Recreation Alerts section on the Delco Alert system.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the Festival of Lights and the final weekend of Delco Flair and Fare Nights!
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Delaware County Council Visits DCIU’s Adapted ArT Showcase Celebrating Creativity, Inclusion, and Assistive Technology | |
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Dr. Monica Taylor, Chair of Delaware County Council, recently visited the third annual ArT Showcase hosted by the Delaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU) at its Education Service Center in Morton. The event featured more than 500 pieces of artwork, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photography, created by students with special needs from schools across Delaware County.
This year’s showcase included contributions from specialized programs and organizations such as CADES, Devereux, Elwyn, and several DCIU initiatives, including the Marple Education Center, Vision Program, OPTIONS, and Early Intervention. These programs aim to support artistic expression and accessibility for individuals of all abilities.
The ArT Showcase derives its name from the integration of Assistive Technology (AT), which plays a central role in enabling students with disabilities to create and share their art.
Submissions were welcomed from teachers of students ranging from early intervention through age 21, encompassing a broad range of diagnoses, including autism, intellectual disabilities, and sensory or physical impairments.
Some of the works on display were created using adaptive tools and assistive devices, such as wheelchair-mounted paintbrushes and specialized software, underscoring the role of technology in facilitating creative expression.
Dr. Taylor praised the showcase for its impact and the talent of the students. “Events like the ArT Showcase highlight how assistive technology can empower students to overcome barriers and share their creativity,” said Dr. Taylor. “I want to thank Dr. Maria Edelberg, Executive Director of the DCIU, and her incredible team for their dedication in organizing this event. And most importantly, I want to thank the students for their amazing works of art. Walking through this showcase feels like stepping into the halls of a museum—such remarkable creativity and artistic vision.”
| County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor checking out the exhibit | |
The event, organized by the DCIU Assistive Technology team, provided students with an opportunity to display their work and engage with the community, fostering a sense of connection and accomplishment. It also highlighted the importance of adapted learning programs in encouraging creativity and independence among students with special needs.
The DCIU Assistive Technology Division plays a key role in supporting students through tools that address diverse learning and communication needs. These include Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices for students with speech or language challenges, low-tech tools, computer access solutions, and resources for students who are visually impaired. The division also incorporates technologies such as iPads and adaptive devices to develop personalized strategies for overcoming barriers.
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New to this year’s showcase was the participation of the Rubato School of Music, which promotes neurodiversity by celebrating the unique ways individuals with different neurological profiles learn and express themselves.
The ArT Showcase continues to provide a platform for celebrating the achievements of students with special needs, emphasizing their abilities and potential while reinforcing the importance of inclusive opportunities in education and the arts.
For more information about assistive technology solutions, visit the DCIU Assistive Technology Program Division website.
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Congratulations to all the student artists who participated in DCIU’s Adapted ArT Showcase! | |
Delaware County Accepting Applications for 15 Vacancies on the Newly Established Veteran’s Advisory Council | |
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Delaware County is currently accepting applications to fill fifteen open positions on the newly established Delaware County Veteran’s Advisory Council.
This is an exciting opportunity for community members, particularly Veterans, to play a pivotal role in shaping policies and programs that address the needs of Veterans and their families in Delaware County.
About the Veteran’s Advisory Council
The Veteran’s Advisory Council was established by Delaware County Council to proactively engage and support Veterans and their families. The council advises County Council, the Office of Military and Veteran’s Affairs, and other County departments on strategies, policies, and programs aimed at improving the lives of Veterans and raising awareness about resources available to them.
The council serves as a vital platform for collaboration between the County, Veterans, and their families, sharing resources and raising awareness about services that strengthen the Veteran community.
“Our office has been very aggressive and intentional in drawing on the input and feedback from our County Veterans, but perhaps we have been a bit myopic in the segments of society we’ve drawn from,” said Delaware County Military and Veterans Affairs Director COL Arthur Jenkins, Jr. “We want this advisory board to draw upon those areas of our community where we have not traditionally engaged, such as academia, government, science, finance, law, both public and private schools, and many other areas. Inviting them for their input is critical to expanding our view of how we determine what is needed in our Veteran community.”
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Advisory Council Details
The Advisory Council includes up to 15 residents of Delaware County, with a preference for individuals who have served in the military. Members represent a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, business, government, and family readiness, among others.
Ideal Delaware County candidates will have experience or expertise in one of the following areas:
- Academia
- Government (local or federal)
- Healthcare (clinicians and non-clinicians)
- Business
- Finance
- Private or public school sector
- Marketing
- Real estate
- Family Readiness (spouse, siblings, etc.)
Members serve a three-year term and collaborate with County officials and stakeholders to develop recommendations, promote resources, and address the unique challenges faced by Veterans and their families.
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How to Apply
Applications are being accepted through December 20, 2024. Interested applicants should submit their resume and a letter of interest via email to the Delaware County Clerk at DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us.
For more information about this opportunity and other board vacancies, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.
Join the Delaware County Veteran’s Advisory Council and make a meaningful impact in the lives of Veterans and their families.
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Reminder: Delaware County Health Department Partners with Pennie to Provide Affordable Health Coverage | |
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The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) recently announced a partnership with Pennie, Pennsylvania’s official online health insurance marketplace. Created by the state and supported by top private insurance companies, Pennie helps residents access affordable, high-quality health insurance plans that meet their needs.
To ensure residents receive the support they need, Pennie staff members will be available at the Delaware County Wellness Center in Yeadon every Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. during the 2025 open enrollment period. These in-person sessions provide an opportunity for individuals and families to get assistance with understanding plan options, completing enrollment, and accessing available savings.
The 2025 Pennie open enrollment period runs from November 1, 2024, through January 15, 2025.
Key deadlines include:
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December 15, 2024: Last day to enroll for coverage starting January 1, 2025.
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January 15, 2025: Last day to enroll for coverage starting February 1, 2025.
For many, navigating health insurance can be overwhelming, and Pennie aims to simplify the process while ensuring no Pennsylvanian is left without coverage. By offering access to multilingual Assisters and free resources, Pennie helps individuals and families secure the best coverage at the lowest cost possible.
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Affordable, quality health care is fundamental to the wellbeing of our residents, and this partnership will help ensure that individuals and families in Delaware County have better access to the support they need to make informed choices about their health coverage
Residents can learn more, explore their options, and access free multilingual support by visiting Pennie.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure affordable health coverage and take an important step toward protecting your health and future.
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Join the Delaware County Commission for Immigrant Affairs: Applications Open for Four Vacancies | |
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Delaware County is calling on residents to help shape a more inclusive community by serving on the Delaware County Commission for Immigrant Affairs. The Commission, established by a unanimous vote of County Council on September 21, 2022, is seeking four new members to join its efforts in addressing the needs of immigrant communities throughout the County.
Details
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Location: Government Center Building, Media, PA
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Openings: 4 Vacancies
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Closing Date: December 20, 2024
The Commission was created to strengthen the voices of local immigrant communities, provide recommendations to County Council and departments, and raise awareness about the rich cultural diversity in Delaware County. Since its founding, the Commission has been a cornerstone of the County’s equity and inclusion efforts.
What the Commission Does
The Delaware County Commission for Immigrant Affairs is tasked with:
- Strengthening the voices of local immigrant communities.
- Advising County Council and departments on policies and programs that improve the lives of immigrants.
- Sharing resources and raising awareness about the history, geography, and culture of the County’s immigrant communities.
The Commission is composed of 11 members, including the County’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer and 10 Delaware County residents appointed by Council. Members elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary, and hold public meetings quarterly.
How to Apply
If you’re passionate about fostering diversity and equity in Delaware County and want to contribute to this important work, we encourage you to apply. Applications are being accepted through Friday, December 20, 2024.
Interested applicants should submit their resume and a letter of interest via email to the Delaware County Clerk at DelcoBoards@co.delaware.pa.us.
For more information about this opportunity and other board vacancies, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Board-Vacancies.
Join us in building a more inclusive future for Delaware County!
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