Parish Health Ministry secures $60,000 grant

Contact: ERH Public Relations at (513) 272-5555, ext. 4288

CINCINNATI, OH (Oct. 17, 2003) - Episcopal Retirement Homes (ERH), a long-term care provider for older adults, has secured a $60,000 grant to expand its Parish Health Ministry (PHM) outreach program.

Awarded by the Trinity Grants Program, the gift will be used to build upon the spiritual aspect of PHM by serving 12 to 20 new congregations over the next two years.

Founded in 1998, PHM helps congregations throughout southern Ohio start a health ministry or enhance existing ministries. Since its development, ERH has invested more than $600,000 to help improve lives through advocacy, education and wellness activities.

Today, the free program serves more than 80 congregations of various religious denominations. PHM activities include free blood pressure and glucose screenings, health promotion programs, continued education classes, disease prevention initiatives and more. It is estimated that ERH spends $2,500 annually per church or a total of $180,000 each year to offer these services.

"Last year, partnering churches in ERH's Parish Health Ministry made more than 17,000 contacts, personally touching lives through health screenings, educational efforts and programs," says Jeanne Palcic, PHM program manager.

"Forty-two parishes throughout southern Ohio walked 50 miles in 50 days, thanks to a valuable Parish Health Ministry program that encouraged nearly 1,400 people to make walking a part of their lifestyle. More than 23,000 miles were logged, which is equivalent to one trip around the world!"

Founded in 1951, ERH conducts a not-for-profit ministry dedicated to providing service primarily for older adults. The Cincinnati-based, not-for-profit organization owns and manages The Marjorie P. Lee Retirement Community and The Deupree Community in Cincinnati, Canterbury Court in West Carrollton, and Stoney Brook, an upcoming community in Columbus.

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