Originally built as a haven for widows in the 1850s, Penn Home retains its historical significance as a safe and pleasant place for its residents. The mansion-like red brick structure sits sophisticated in a tree-lined neighborhood of small row homes. The original foyer welcomes visitors, and on its left an impressive chapel with wooden pews and a grand piano provides a place of peaceful reflection for residents. The interior décor, too, reflects the building’s past. An abundance of antiques and pale burgundy carpet with cream-colored walls creates a very homey feel. It was easy to see a sense of familiarity between staff and residents as well. Most of the residents know each other from the close-knit community of Fishtown. One of them was the facility director’s former middle school teacher! The director grew up in the neighborhood, and most of the residents knew him as a small child. In fact, his parents are residents here, too—it’s one big, happy family.
Penn Home boasts many small communal rooms with antique chairs and tables, and an enclosed sunporch on the second floor—a favorite gathering spot for playing cards in the afternoon. Adjacent is a well-stocked library. Large windows anchor moderately sized resident bedrooms, allowing for plenty of natural light. A combination of residents’ personal belongings and facility furniture creates individualized living spaces.
A professionally trained chef prepares appetizing dishes, served in a modest yet attractive dining room. During our visit, residents enjoyed a chicken dish for lunch and “moose tracks” ice cream for dessert. A refrigerated salad bar is at the ready all day long, as is a vending area. Planned activities include exercise, socials, games, arts and crafts and movie viewing. A lovely garden sitting area with beautiful greenery is a nice backdrop to relaxing afternoon visits. Penn Home doesn’t feel institutional in the least, but rather a place that is welcoming and, according to its residents, a great place to call home.
