Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer and Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon participated in a press conference hosted by U.S. Senator Bob Casey and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon on April 25 at the Delaware County Courthouse. 

The press conference highlighted substantial funding for the Delaware County Health Department. 

Senator Casey and Congresswoman Scanlon worked to secure $954,000 in community project funding that will allow the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) to create a new workforce development program to train Perinatal Community Health Care Workers (PCHW) and doulas who can work to reduce racial disparities in maternal health. 

The program also aims to reduce racial and economic disparities in maternal care through education, targeted training, and deployment of doulas in communities that have the highest disparities in maternal and child health outcomes. The goal of this program is to ensure that Delaware County women will receive the support they need to assist in healthy pregnancies and deliveries, as well as reduce disparities in maternal and birth outcomes.

Senator Casey and Representative Scanlon fought for this community project funding to improve maternal health outcomes in Southeastern Pennsylvania and bolster the health care workforce. 

“When the Delaware County Health Department applied for community project funding, it struck me that infant mortality rates were three times higher for babies born to Black mothers than those born to white mothers here in Delco,” said Senator Casey. “If we are not keeping moms and babies safe, then we are not doing enough to keep our Nation safe. By investing in community health workers, this project invests in those who know their community best, making them uniquely suited to provide the proper maternal health care to their neighbors.”

The disparate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people of color has brought a new focus to health disparities, including the longstanding inequities in maternal and infant health. Additionally, with Roe v. Wade now overturned, there are increased barriers for people to access abortions, which is also expected to disproportionally impact people of color. 

Many low-income families in Delaware County have challenges accessing healthcare and some families struggle because English is not a first language. Those challenges are also compounded by the fact that the Delaware County community recently lost a birthing hospital- Delaware County Memorial Hospital- which serves a large population, many of which are low-income and English is not their first language.

There is a crisis in Delaware County and throughout the nation regarding maternal and infant mortality. Black and Brown women are three times more likely to die during childbirth compared to White women. And research also shows that Black women are at significantly higher risk for severe maternal morbidity, such as preeclampsia. And Black women have higher rates of admission to the intensive care unit during delivery compared to White women. There are clear racial disparities in maternal and infant health and it’s critical that we work to raise awareness and create change.

"Every mother in our community deserves to live a happy, healthy life with her baby, but tragically, our country has the worst maternal health outcomes in the developed world, and Black women are three times more likely to die from childbirth than white women," said Rep. Scanlon. "With this new federal funding for additional maternal health care workers and doulas, Delaware County is taking urgently needed action to reverse these alarming trends and protect our mothers and babies. I'm grateful for Senator Casey and Delaware County's partnership in advancing evidence-based solutions that will save lives and reduce disparities.”

Members of the newly created Delaware County Maternal Child Health Committee also attended the press conference. In February, County Council and the County Health Department formed the Delaware County Maternal Child Health Committee to address the critical public health issues facing mothers and children in our community. The Committee is working to address the disparities in maternal health outcomes in Delaware County. Subcommittees will be formed in other key areas of concern, including concerns that will be identified by the upcoming Delaware County Needs Assessment. 

“The Committee’s expertise and passion surrounding maternal and children’s health can help the County to prevent deaths and also greatly improve the overall health and well-being of women, babies, and children across the county,” said Dr. Taylor. “As Council and the County Health Department gain valuable information and data, we can utilize the community project funding to work to improve maternal health outcomes in Delaware County. Our goal is that every pregnant woman has a healthy pregnancy and their babies have a healthy start when they are brought into this world.” 

Delaware County is assessing the quality of the County’s housing assistance services and planning for the future. Residents are invited to participate in an online survey regarding housing services in the county. Housing services can include rental assistance, shelters, transitional housing, mental health housing support, drug and alcohol housing support, and many other services. 

Last month, Council approved an agreement with S Brand Solutions to access housing services and resources available in the county. The assessment of housing services is being completed as an initial step to develop an overall strategic plan for Delaware County’s Department of Human Services and Community Support Departments. In addition to the community survey, targeted surveys are also being offered to County employees, stakeholders, and recipients of housing services. 

Residents are invited to complete the survey, linked below, through May 1.

Some of the key goals of the assessment being done by S Brand Solutions are to:

• Understand how the housing programs and services in Delaware County are organized and how they operate to best meet current and future needs
• Review the shelter system and the coordinated entry process
• Optimize resources to build greater efficiency and effectiveness for housing services as a whole 
• Identify gaps in the delivery of housing services including the challenges, barriers, and opportunities within those gaps
• Recommend improvements in housing services

A key component to the assessment is gathering valuable input from the community and residents are encouraged to take the survey and offer their opinions. 

The County, in partnership with several community stakeholders also formed the Delaware County Housing Working Group earlier this year to address the critical issue of safe and affordable housing for all Delaware County residents. 

The Working Group first met in February 2023 and is focused on three categories:

1. The unhoused population in Delaware County 
2. Rapid Rehousing (Rental Housing)
3. Affordable Housing (Homeownership)

In celebration of Earth Day, Delaware County employees participated in a variety of activities as part of its commitment to sustainability, open space, and quality of life in Delaware County.

On Tuesday, April 18, Delaware County Councilman Kevin Madden and Delaware County Councilwoman Christine Reuther joined Delaware County residents and members of the Delaware County Parks and Recreation Department and the Delaware County Office of Sustainability at the Redwood Community Center in Upland for a program called “Planting a Kitchen Garden with Penn State Master Gardeners.” 

Volunteers from the Penn State Master Gardeners program provided potting tips and hands-on instructions to the 50 local seniors who participated. Representatives from the Pennsylvania Resources Council (PRC) and the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) were also in attendance to provide materials and information to participants. Residents also enjoyed Earth Day-themed music from Steve Kurtz Entertainment while painting pots and learning about herbs and gardening. 

After the potting program, participants enjoyed lunch, then gathered outside for a short Tree Planting & Dedication in memory of beloved Redwood DJ and long-time entertainer Sal April, who passed away one year ago. 

On Saturday, April 22, Delaware County Council, the Delaware County Office of Sustainability, the Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Delaware County Planning Department hosted an Earth Day Clean Up and Tree Planting at the County’s Clayton Park—165 acres of scenic woodlands and rolling greens in Concord and Bethel Townships. This magnificent open space containing acres of beech/maple climax forest serves as a valuable resource for nature lovers, scout troops, picnic groups, little leagues, and many others. 

Delaware County employees, family, and friends, including Councilwoman Christine Reuther (and her dog Larry!), Chief Sustainability Officer Francine Locke, Parks and Recreation Director Marc Manfre, Planning Department Director Gina Burritt, members of the Delaware County Park Police and volunteers from other County departments planted several flowering Dogwood trees, removed litter along the park’s roadside, and enjoyed some beautiful Earth Day weather.

Among the interesting items found by volunteers during the cleanup included a car fender, a bowling ball, a coat rack, car tires, golf balls, a messenger bag, and countless potato chip bags, plastic containers and glass bottles.

Delaware County Park Police were also on hand to help with traffic control and make the day safe for all.

Residents interested in checking out Clayton Park, or any of the many parks and trails maintained by the County of Delaware can visit the Parks & Recreation website.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer joined dozens of County employees and several victim advocacy organizations to observe National Crime Victims’ Rights’ Week on April 27 in front of the Delaware County Courthouse in Media. 

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, established in 1981, is held each year in April and is dedicated to educating the public about victimization, the effect victimization has on individuals, families, friends and the community, and to promote laws, policies, and programs to help victims of crime.

Tragically, there are residents across Delaware County who are affected by serious crime, and those victims often face physical, psychological, and financial impacts. Victims often suffer serious and traumatic effects. This is a problem nationwide, and Delaware County has not been spared. Victims are all ages, races, genders, and live in neighborhoods across the county. 

“All of us who come into contact with victims are enriched by the bravery and resiliency they display after surviving circumstances that most of us cannot even imagine,” said District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer. “Each day, law enforcement plays a critical role in providing justice for those harmed by some of the most heinous acts of violence. But we couldn’t do what we do without the support and advocacy of the incredible organizations working in Delaware County to support and guide the victims of crime. Their work often goes unsung, but it is nonetheless critical to the work that we do. On behalf of the law enforcement community, I want to express our heartfelt thanks,” said District Attorney Stollsteimer.

District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and his very dedicated team work to raise awareness about the plight of victims of crime and work to ensure the safety of witnesses who testify on behalf of victims. They offer services to victims through the Victim Witness Assistance Unit of the District Attorney's Office, Delaware County Children and Youth Services, Victim Services Unit of Juvenile Court and Probation, and the County Office of Services for the Aging. 

Efforts are furthered by partnerships with victim advocacy organizations including the Domestic Abuse Project, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Delaware County Victim Assistance Center, and Every Child Counts. In 2022: 

• The Delaware County Victim Assistance Center received 3,427 hotline calls, had 2,435 court accompaniments, and served 1,392 clients. 
• Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) provided 223 children with advocacy and 124 children were provided with an Education Decision Maker. 
• Family Support Line served 707 clients in the Child Advocacy Center, offered 1,300 hours of therapy, and had 178 hours of case management. 
• Domestic Abuse Project had clients spend a total of 5,555 nights in emergency shelters, received 3,929 hotline calls, and had 482 court appearances and accompaniments. 
• Juvenile Court and Probation Services served 1,714 victims, accompanied 152 victims to court, and had over $70,000 in restitution paid to juvenile victims. 
• County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) received 988 reports of needs of seniors investigated. 

“These County offices and victim advocacy organizations offer tremendous support and compassion to residents who have been victims of crime,” said Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer. “Many know firsthand the traumatic impact violent crimes have and have helped our residents heal and feel empowered and we are tremendously grateful for the work they do.”

Vice Chair Schaefer presented members of several County offices and victim advocacy organizations with a resolution declaring April 23-29, 2023 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in Delaware County and commended those in attendance for the work they do each day to support, protect and advocate for victims of crime.

Each May, Delaware County Council embraces the opportunity to celebrate National Older Americans Month and shine a spotlight on the contributions of older residents across the County. 

Nearly one in every five County residents is a senior. County Council recognizes the contributions of seniors to businesses, volunteer organizations, Veterans’ groups, places of worship, schools, and many other valuable organizations where they invest their time. More than ever before, older Americans are working longer and engaging in their communities. Seniors are striving for wellness, focusing on independence, and advocating for themselves and others. 

Older Americans Month was first created by President John F. Kennedy in May of 1963, a national month of recognition to be held each May to celebrate the vitality and achievements of older adults. This year’s theme, Aging Unbound, offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.

Aging is unique for everyone; however, older residents are encouraged to consider some key elements to enhance their quality of life:

• Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.
• Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.
• Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.
• Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.

During the month of May, County Council encourages seniors to attend a variety of events hosted by the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA):

Celebrate Age Senior Living Expo

Friday, May 5

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon 

COSA is hosting the annual Celebrate Age Senior Living Expo at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in Chester. The Expo is free and features entertainment, vendors, giveaways, raffles, and refreshments. 

Centenarian Luncheon

Monday, May 22

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Delaware County Council and COSA will honor residents 100 years of age and older at the annual Centenarian Luncheon to be held at the Drexelbrook Banquet Center. Any resident turning age 100 or older in 2023 is invited to attend with a guest for free (additional guests are welcome with the purchase of tickets for $25 per individual). Centenarians can register by contacting Debbie Hedgepeth at (610) 872-1406.

Information on all COSA programs, events, and resources can be found on the COSA website.

As part of National Volunteer Appreciation Month, Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, and Director of Emergency Services Timothy Boyce joined the Citizen Corps of Delaware County (CCDC) at a Volunteer Appreciation Potluck and Recognition Event at the Radnorshire Room in Radnor on Friday evening to extend their appreciation for the time, expertise, and energy provided by the volunteer organization to the County of Delaware.

Members of the CCDC leadership team, led by Danielle Koerner, Deputy Chief Special Operations, volunteers from CCDC, MRC, DelCART, ARES, and EBHT (formerly DCORT) and friends and family members shared a meal and reflected on their accomplishments over the past year. County Council presented a formal resolution recognizing CCDC, and CCDC Leadership recognized Radnor Superintendent of Police Chris Flanagan who, along with several other members of the Citizen Corps, were presented with Pandemic Challenge Coins in honor of their selfless work during the COVID-19 response.

“Our volunteers exemplify what makes Delco great; they give not only their time and talents, but their heart and soul to helping others,” said DES Director Boyce. “Every mission they accomplish, no matter how big or small, makes our community a better place — a community of generosity, of inclusion and a community of hope.”

“The Citizen Corps of Delaware County and its volunteers are emblematic of the incredible spirit of collaboration within the Delco community,” said Vice Chair Schaefer. “The response of volunteers during the pandemic was truly heroic, and volunteers tirelessly continue to step forward when needed and help us prepare for future emergencies.”

CCDC supports and augments the County’s first responders and emergency management staff during times of a major emergency or disaster. Over the past calendar year, CCDC volunteers — including the specialized volunteer units such as the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), the Delaware County Animal Response Team (DelCART), the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES), and the Emergency Behavioral Health Team (formally DCORT) — have engaged in 68 missions, training, and events. Since the start of this year alone, over 900 volunteer hours have been logged!

Delaware County commends and thanks CCDC and all volunteers in our community.

The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) and Personic Healthcare are announcing the end of their COVID-19, influenza (flu) and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) testing operation partnership at the Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon. On June 2, 2022, this partnership began providing free COVID-19 testing at the Delaware County Wellness Center parking lot in Yeadon. Starting on January 3, 2023, services at this location were expanded to include flu and RSV testing. The final day of testing services in Yeadon will be Saturday, April 29, 2023.

Over the course of this partnership, DCHD and Personic Healthcare provided a valuable free resource to residents of Delaware County, helping to identify and contain the spread of COVID-19, flu and RSV. However, as the case counts for respiratory illnesses have decreased, so has the demand for these testing services. Depending on future public health needs, DCHD and Personic Healthcare may renew partnerships in the future. 

"We are grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside Personic Healthcare to provide testing services to our community," said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. "Their support and partnership have been instrumental in our efforts to mitigate the spread of viruses and keep our community healthy and safe.”

“We look forward to keep working with DCDH into the future for any other needs that Personic Healthcare can address,” said Farhad Hashmi, Personic Healthcare Chief Executive Officer.

Residents in need of testing through April 29, 2023, may still schedule an appointment at the Yeadon testing site at https://personictesting.com/locations/pennsylvania

Individuals who need to be tested for COVID-19, flu or RSV after April 29 should contact their primary care provider or visit the DCHD website for available options at delcopa.gov/testing.

As part of National County Government Month, the National Association of Counties (NACo) has launched a student art contest titled “I Love My County Because…” in an effort to bolster civic education and educate communities on the role of county government—a role that is often largely unknown or misunderstood. 

The art contest, co-sponsored by Americans for the Arts—one of the nation’s largest arts advocacy and research organizations—aims to spread the word about county roles and responsibilities and raise awareness about county programs and services that impact people’s lives every day.

The contest is open to all students, grades K-12, from April 24 through September 29, 2023. 

Submitted artwork must present a county activity that shows how “Counties Matter,” and take inspiration from the sentence “I love my county because…” The artwork must reflect some aspect of a county government function, service or program, to celebrate National County Government Month. Winning submissions will be included in the 2024 “Counties Matter” calendar.

Along with the artwork, each student is required to submit an “Artist’s Statement” that explains how “Counties Matter” in their community or complete the sentence “I love my county because…”. Submitted artwork should reflect the spirit of the statement submitted. 

How to Apply

To apply, students can visit the National Association of Counties website and click the "Get Started" button. Students will need to provide contact information and details about their school before uploading the digital file and copying their “Artist’s Statement.”

Submitted artwork will be judged based on artistic skill in painting, drawing or digital art. All artwork must be original in its expression of a personal vision or voice. It must be the student's own work and cannot be plagiarized or in violation of any copyright.

Artwork must be horizontal, 11" wide by 8.5" tall, and submitted in PDF or JPEG format. The most important elements of the artwork must not extend beyond 10.5" 8" to account for trimming during the calendar production process. Digital submissions should be in RGB color and be 300 dpi.

Participation is free, and only one submission per student is permitted. Additional deadline and submission details should be reviewed on the NACo website.

Delaware County Council encourages our talented Delaware County students to participate, and looks forward to seeing the great artwork from students in counties all across the country!

2022 Art Contest Winners

Voters reminded to call the Election Hotline if they have not received their Vote-by-Mail Ballot within 5 business days

As a reminder, the Delaware County Bureau of Elections completed the mailing of more than 28,000 vote-by-mail ballots on Thursday, April 20, for the upcoming May 16, 2023 Primary Election. 

All vote-by-mail ballots requested by April 7 have now been mailed to voters. If you requested a vote-by-mail ballot before April 7, 2023, and have still not received it, please call the Delaware County Election Hotline at (610) 891-VOTE (8683).

Delaware County voters who are casting a Vote-by-Mail ballot can return their completed ballot immediately through USPS (either through their mail carrier or at any USPS postal office). Voters can also cast their ballot at the ballot drop box located on the ground floor of the Government Center Building, located at 201 W. Front Street in Media. The drop box is open 24 hours a day. 

Beginning Monday, May 1, voters will also be able to return their Vote-by-Mail ballot at any of the more than three dozen Delaware County ballot drop box sites located in municipalities across the county. Most drop box sites will be open 24/7. The complete list of sites, including hours of operation, are available at delcopa.gov/dropbox. 

Voters must only return their own ballot. The only exception is to assist a disabled voter or an emergency absentee voter, which requires a declaration form (available on the Delco Votes! website) signed by the voter and by the person returning the ballot. Ballots must be properly marked, sealed, and returned to ensure that they are counted.

All ballots must be received by the Delaware County Bureau of Elections by 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, May 16.

Delaware County Govt Official 2023 Calendar

Meet your Delaware County Council members

The Delaware County Health Department website