Catholic Charities of Philadelphia (CCoP) is a faith-based organization dedicated to serving those facing urgent needs throughout the Philadelphia area. Each year, it supports more than 300,000 residents across the five counties through nearly 40 programs that provide comprehensive assistance in food, housing, services for older adults, immigration legal support, child protection, and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Its mission, inspired by the works of mercy, centers on human dignity and the commitment to promoting the well-being of every person, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Catholic Charities of Philadelphia also strengthens the growth of children and youth through educational and emotional programs, offers seniors community centers and housing that promote wellness, and advances inclusion for people with disabilities through supported employment, integration programs, and residential options. Together, its efforts form a vital network of support that provides hope, stability, and opportunities for thousands of individuals to reach their full potential.
With this mission in mind, we visited one of its facilities: the Norris Square Senior Center, located at 2121 North Howard Street in Philadelphia. The warmth is felt the moment you walk in. It comes not only from the professional kitchen serving hot meals every day, but also from the strong sense of community that connects its members. For more than 25 years, this center has served as a true refuge for older adults in the area.—operated by Catholic Charities has served as a true refuge for older adults in the area. Its manager, Wanda Mercado, has dedicated years to strengthening this space and is now one of the most committed voices behind its mission.
“Our main goal is to feed people 60 years and older,” explained Mercado. “Donations are optional. But this is much more than food: here we offer zumba, exercise classes, crafts, painting, bingo, and trips. Everything is designed to help our seniors continue living an independent and happy life.”
Mercado emphasizes that loneliness can lead to depression or unnecessary medication, which is why the center also functions as a family. “We want our seniors to live not only independently, but happily. And here, to understand it, you have to experience it: culture, the support, affection. This is a second home.”
A mission rooted in faith and community service
The center’s origins trace back to the Second Baptist Church, where community leader Carmen Aponte saw the group of older adults grow beyond the church’s capacity. Catholic Charities stepped in to help create a dedicated space for them. “It’s been more than 25 years,” recalled Mercado. “Carmen accepted their support so that this mission could continue helping those in need, the homeless, and those requiring assistance. And today we continue with that same purpose.”
Services that address urgent needs
In addition to recreational activities, the center offers essential services such as assistance with applications like LIHEAP, referrals for home repairs, and monthly access to the Share box food program and “La Placita,” where canned goods are distributed.
A story that changed her life
For Mercado, managing this center has also been a deep personal journey. “When I started here, I had just buried my grandfather, who raised me,” she shared emotionally. “I asked God, ‘You took my grandfather—who’s going to give me a blessing now?’ And the first thing that happened was that one of the participants greeted me with a kiss on the cheek. As I sat in my office, an elderly woman recited psalms outside my door. I felt God saying, ‘I took one, but I gave you a hundred.”
Facing hunger and the SNAP crisis
Mercado also expressed concern about reductions to benefits like SNAP, which have left many seniors with fewer resources. “It’s tragic that this is happening. If you know a neighbor or an older friend in need, tell them to come. I don’t want our people to go hungry when this program exists to help them.”
Support from Philly Gives
The center was selected among ten organizations to receive support from Philly Gives, an honor for its director, Wanda Mercado. These funds will help serve more older adults affected by language barriers, and Mercado plans to invest in outreach so more people can learn about the center’s services.
Catholic Charities of Philadelphia will participate in the Philly Gives campaign from November 1 to December 31, 2025. All donations made through phillygives.org will go directly to the selected nonprofit organizations, ensuring that 100% of the funds support essential programs.
