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The Delaware County Weekly

Bringing Delco news and information directly to our residents!


—— December 16, 2022 (47th edition) ——

Health Department Urges Residents to take Precautions Against Respiratory Illnesses

The Delaware County Health Department urges residents to take precautions in response to the rise in respiratory illnesses this winter season. Delaware County, like Pennsylvania and the rest of the country, is experiencing high rates of influenza (flu), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The current flu season is more intense than it has been in the past 8 years. 


All Delaware County residents are urged to protect themselves and their families by getting their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible. Test yourself for COVID-19 before making trips to family gatherings. Residents are also urged to wear a high-quality mask (like a KN95 or N95) when attending large indoor gatherings and more importantly—stay home and rest if they are not feeling well.


“The holidays are a time for celebrating and spending time with loved ones,” said Delaware County Health Department Director Melissa Lyon. “Residents should enjoy each other’s company this holiday season but make sure they are protecting those they love—especially older adults, young children, and those who are immunocompromised risk severe illness or hospitalization. The best way to stay happy and healthy this year is to protect yourself.”

More about Influenza

The Delaware County Health Department has been tracking the rise of flu in the county since early October. Most recently, during the week ending December 3, there were 896 diagnosed cases of flu in Delaware County, compared to just 95 cases during this same week last year. As of December 10, the Delaware County Health Department has confirmed a total of 4,180 cases of influenza this season. 


Hospital and urgent care visits in Delaware County have spiked in recent weeks as well because of influenza-like illness, with trends increasing.


The CDC estimates that since October 1, there has been at least 8.7 million illnesses, 78,000 hospitalizations and 4,500 deaths from flu in the United States, including a tragic total of 14 pediatric deaths.


For more information, visit our flu web page at delcopa.gov/flu.

More about COVID-19

COVID-19 has shown the ability to make its way into our homes during the holidays. Coronavirus is still dangerous, and cases are rising.


The Health Department anticipates that the current level of community transmission is higher than is reportable. This is due to the prevalence of at-home testing and residents who may have mild symptoms and do not get tested.


As of the week ending December 3, Delaware County’s reported incidence rate of new daily COVID-19 cases is 79.6 per 100,000, and the number of weekly new cases has been reported at 459.


For more information, visit our COVID-19 website at delcopa.gov/covid.

More about RSV

Although we have seen a decrease in Delaware County of RSV in the past few weeks, it is still circulating in the community and making people sick.


During the week ending December 3, there were a total of 101 cases of RSV. This is a decrease from 275 cases during the week ending November 5.


While RSV can affect individuals of all ages, it can be especially serious for infants, children, and older adults.


Please consult your medical provider if symptoms that are severe or concerning. 


For more information, visit our RSV web page at delcopa.gov/rsv.

Antiviral Drugs

If you get sick with a respiratory virus, antiviral drugs may be a treatment option. Antiviral drugs work best when started early, such as one to two days after your symptoms begin. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious complications and you get respiratory symptoms. People at higher risk of respiratory complications include young children, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant people, and people with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.


Residents having trouble accessing COVID-19 or flu vaccines or those who are homebound may call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276 – 2100 or reach us by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us.

Delco Receives Grant to Create a More Inclusive Environment for LGBTQIA+ Community 

The Delaware County Workforce Development Board and the Montgomery County Workforce Development Board (MontcoWorks), in partnership with Educational Data Systems, Inc. (EDSI), have received a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, Bureau of Workforce Development to create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more) job seekers within the two-county area. 


The grant will fund a “LGBTQIA+ Career Navigator” to help job seekers connect to PA CareerLink® Centers and additional resources, a needs assessment and asset mapping of LGBTQIA+ resources in Delaware and Montgomery counties, the development of a job seeker curriculum with input from legal experts, and employer webinars about LGBTQIA+ rights in the workplace. 


“As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, I am committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of life,” said Roe Falcone, EDSI’s Director of Strategic Partnerships. “In response to the continuing hate crimes against gay and transgender people throughout the nation, EDSI and the Delaware and Montgomery County Workforce Development Boards are striving to eliminate discrimination in the hiring, promotion, and treatment of LGBTQ people in the workplace. This grant will provide additional support and resources for those who identify as LGBTQ and promote inclusivity in the workplace.”


The grant will augment the services of each county’s PA CareerLink® Centers, which provide resources for individuals seeking employment, short-term training, and work experience, and for businesses looking to hire qualified candidates. 


“It’s important that we work together to ensure a safe and inclusive culture for all residents that respects gender identity and/or sexual preference,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “This grant will assist the County and EDSI in creating a more inclusive work environment for members of the LGBTQIA+ community.”


For more information, please contact:


Roe Falcone

Director of Strategic Partnerships, EDSI

Email: rfalcone@edsisolutions.com

Phone: (215) 796-2160


Kate McGeever

Executive Director, Delaware County Workforce Development Board

Email: mcgeeverk@co.delaware.pa.us

Phone: (484) 745-7636

Annual Holiday Song Fest features Students from Springton Lake Middle School, the Walden School, and Media Elementary School

Thank you to the talented students of Springton Lake Middle School, the Walden School, and Media Elementary School for spreading some winter holiday cheer at the Delaware County Government Center this week!


The young students from these three Delaware County schools took part in the County’s "Holiday Song Fest" -- a week of performances from students across the county.


Their performances were a joyful sight and made the hallways of the Government Center merry and bright!

Pictures from the three-day Holiday Song Fest at the Delaware County Government Building

Happy Hanukkah! Come out this Sunday for the Menorah Lighting, Hanukkah Village, and the Great Hanukkah Gelt Drop

Hanukkah is almost here, beginning at sundown on Sunday, December 18!


Delaware County residents of all faiths are invited to join Rabbi Tzvi Altein and members of Chabad of Delaware County, Delaware County Council, community leaders and local dignitaries at the 8th Annual Grand Menorah Lighting that will take place in front of the Delaware County Courthouse on Sun., Dec. 18, from 4:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.


Prior to the Menorah lighting, from 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Chabad of Delaware County and participating businesses invite residents to stroll along State Street in Media and enjoy the magical Hanukkah Village as many stores transform for the night, offering festive family-fun activities, including Hanukkah story time, Menorah making, Hanukkah Face art, Lego dreidels, candle making, donut decorating, latkes, crafts, and… the Great Hanukkah Gelt Drop!


Hanukkah Village activity maps can be picked up outside the County Courthouse.


Delaware County Courthouse

201 W. Front Street, Media, PA


Hope to see you there! 

Pictures from the 7th Annual Grand Menorah Lighting in 2021

Delaware County Health Department Now Offering No-Cost Pregnancy Testing

The Delaware County Health Department is now offering no-cost pregnancy testing (urine testing only) to Delaware County women, Monday through Friday, at the Delaware County Wellness Centers in Yeadon and Chester.


Women of all ages are welcome, and no insurance or ID is required. Results will be provided immediately, and all results and services are strictly confidential.


To schedule an appointment, call the Delaware County Wellness Line at (484) 276-2100, or request an appointment by email at DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us. Appointments can also be made in-person at either Health Department Wellness Center, though please note that same-day appointments are not guaranteed.


Limited walk-ins are also available at the Delaware County Wellness Center in Yeadon, located at 125 Chester Avenue, on Mondays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and at the Delaware County Wellness Center in Chester, located at 151 W. 5th St., on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.


This no-cost testing is available to any woman who believes she is pregnant. For the test to be accurate, it is recommended that women do not test before their first missed period. 


A pregnancy test should be taken at the onset of potential pregnancy symptoms. A woman who is pregnant may experience one or more of these symptoms:


  • A missed period
  • Headache
  • Spotting
  • Breast tenderness
  • Bloating
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Nausea and vomiting


A woman may have none of these symptoms or may observe other changes in her body, which is why a pregnancy test is important.


Women who test positive will be able to speak to a staff member for guidance and resources, including (based on need) information regarding medical care, doula services, adoption, WIC, and more.

County Council and the Delaware County Women’s Commission Participate in Women Empowering Women Event

Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor and Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer were honored to participate in the Women Empowering Women Networking Event on December 14 at the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. The event, hosted by the Delaware County Women’s Commission, in collaboration with the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and First Resource Bank offered inspirational discussion and connection building for women across the county. 


The networking event provided a positive, supportive environment where Delaware County women — professionals, students, business owners, community leaders, civic-minded go-getters, executives, entrepreneurs, and influencers — could meet and interact with other women who want to help foster success and who are eager to share their resources and expertise to help Delaware County women take the next step in their personal and professional life.


“Networking events such as this really do provide a great environment for collaboration, allowing us to share both our struggles, and our successes,” said Delaware County Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer. “Sometimes sharing just a little experience and insight can really contribute to the success of someone’s pursuits, and it’s been wonderful to see this group of women work together to support our various ambitions.” 


During the event, Vice Chair Schaefer presented a resolution to First Resource Bank President and CFO Lauren Ranalli, a strong supporter of the Delaware County Women’s Commission who shares the Commission’s commitment to the advancement of women in the county and has worked with First Resource Bank to proudly sponsor the 2022 “Women Empowering Women” event. 


About the Delaware County Women’s Commission


The purpose of the Delaware County Women’s Commission is to evaluate the concerns and needs of women and girls residing in Delaware County and make recommendations to County Council on how to address those concerns and needs. 


Members serve together as the decision-making body with respect to actions needed to fulfill its mandate. The Commissioners are responsible for setting policies that guide the operation of its task forces, committees, and coalitions. 


To learn more about the Commission and to see a schedule of publicly accessible meetings, please visit the Delaware County Women’s Commission website.

Delaware County Women’s Commission Website

December 14, Delaware County Chamber of Commerce, Springfield

Congratulations to the Newest Graduating Class of the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program

Delaware County Council congratulates Geraldine Boyd, Verdealous Gans, Betty Mason, Dorothy Murphy, and Savannah Wilmore—the newest graduating class of the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program. 


As new members of the Foster Grandparent Program, they will soon be placed at volunteer sites throughout the community, mentoring and tutoring children in Head Start centers, childcare centers and schools. Good luck!


About the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program


The program, sponsored nationally by AmeriCorps Seniors and locally by COSA (Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging), was established for individuals 55 and older who have a desire to help children achieve their full potential. 


Foster Grandparents can help guide students to higher academic achievement, care for premature infants or children with disabilities, mentor troubled teenagers and young mothers, and serve as role models for those with exceptional needs.


AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers, who serve within the Foster Grandparent program, provide the kind of comfort and love that sets a child on a path to a successful future. AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers themselves report better health and longevity having served their community, and enjoy new relationships with people in their community, while making a significant difference in the lives of others.


Foster Grandparents experience the joy of knowing they are making a real difference in the life of a child. 


Interested in being a Foster Grandparent to a child in need?


If you would like more information about the Foster Grandparent Program or would like to be in the next graduating class—the next class starts in February— please contact Alisha Freeman by phone (610) 490-1498 or by email at freemanas@co.delaware.pa.us.


AmeriCorps Seniors service provides tangible benefits for volunteers. The Foster Grandparent program offers modest tax-free stipends to eligible volunteers—up to $500 a month—to help offset the costs of volunteering, transportation assistance, and STO – stipend paid off and holidays. 


Other benefits include training, accident, personal liability, and excess automobile liability insurance as well as community recognition. 


Participants must be available at least 15 hours per week.


For more information, visit the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program website.

AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program Website

Pictured (left to right): Verdealous Gans, Geraldine Boyd (front row); Dorothy Murphy, Betty Mason, Savannah Wilmore (back row)

The December 16 Delaware County Holiday Village Market Rescheduled to December 18

Due to the recent heavy rain and the anticipation that the fields at Rose Tree Park will be too soaked to park cars, the Holiday Village Market scheduled for Fri., Dec. 16 has been moved to Sun., Dec. 18.


The time will remain the same: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.


Tomorrow's Holiday Village Market, scheduled for Sat., Dec. 17, is still expected to be held. 


The Festival of Lights light display at Rose Tree Park will still be lit on Fri., Dec. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., as planned, and will run nightly through Sun., Jan. 1, rain, snow or shine.


As a reminder, each night the Holiday Village vendors change. See the lineup below for this weekend's list!

Holiday Village Vendor List for Sat., Dec 17

Holiday Village Vendor List for Sun., Dec 18

Sun. Dec. 18 is the final day of the Holiday Village, while the Festival of Lights continues to Jan. 1.



Hope to see you there!

Delaware County Govt Official 2022 Calendar

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Meet your Delaware County Council members

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The Delaware County Health Department website

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