Philadelphia Facility Providing Housing for Cancer Patients Made More Accessible through Efforts of Local Lawmakers

PHILADELPHIA, PA—Yesterday, cancer patients and survivors gathered at the Philadelphia Hope Lodge to celebrate the forthcoming construction of an accessibility ramp to make the facility and gardens more accessible to guests. The project was enabled by a grant in the 2023-24 Pennsylvania state budget. In attendance were Senator Art Haywood and State Representative Napoleon Nelson, who jointly advocated for the funding and ensured its approval in the legislature. The Philadelphia Hope Lodge resides in both Sen. Haywood’s and Rep. Nelson’s district and represents a pillar in their community. 

The American Cancer Society (ACS) erected the Philadelphia Hope Lodge in 2009 to provide patients with a free place to stay and transportation resources to access their appointments in the city. For 15 years, the Philadelphia Hope Lodge has provided countless cancer patients, who reside more than 40 miles away, a free stay and a private, nurturing and homelike environment while they receive the quality care they need to survive and thrive.

Donna Greco, Pennsylvania Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the advocacy affiliate of the ACS, said, “We at ACS and ACS CAN are incredibly grateful to Senator Haywood for being a champion for cancer patients. We are confident that this grant will be invaluable in our efforts to expand the reach of the Hope Lodge and alleviate the burden of disease for more Pennsylvanians. An accessibility ramp will ensure that mobility is not a barrier to accessing the Hope Lodge facility or its gardens, which provide a therapeutic outlet and space for many current residents.”

During his visit to the Hope Lodge, Sen. Haywood shared what motivated him to support the initiative.

"Carrie Connor was a good friend of mine that I met through her work as an accountant. Carrie’s life of joy and struggle with breast cancer is a tremendous example for us all.  Her ‘Praise for the Cure,’ initiative brought dignity and support for cancer families. Courage is our hope,” said Sen. Haywood. “I was glad to help the American Cancer Society secure additional funds for the Hope Lodge. This Lodge and the beautiful garden residents will have access to will help renew their sense of dignity and hope."

During his visit to the Hope Lodge, Rep. Nelson reflected on the significance of the investment.
“While we strive to eradicate cancer we need places like Hope Lodge to continue providing a high standard of care to more patients. I am so thankful to be able to help secure the necessary funds that Hope Lodge needed to build this accessibility ramp so that more people can have access to this valuable resource.”

Bonnie Hudson is a current guest at the Philadelphia Hope Lodge and was thrilled at the news of the grant.

“I have had the good fortune of being a Hope Lodge guest for the last two months as I receive care at one of Philadelphia’s premiere treatment centers. If not for Philadelphia Hope Lodge, I might not have been able to access my lifesaving care,” said Bonnie Hudson. “I am proud to see the Hope Lodge becoming accessible to more patients who face mobility issues, a common challenge for many patients. It is such a gift to Hope Lodge guests to know that a community leader has broadened the scope of this facility and increased its capacity for healing.” 

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About ACS CAN

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) advocates for evidence-based public policies to reduce the cancer burden for everyone. We engage our volunteers across the country to make their voices heard by policymakers at every level of government. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We stand with our volunteers, working to make cancer a top priority for policymakers in cities, states and our nation’s capital. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.