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Supporting Students Beyond the School Day: A Food and Snack Drive for McDaniel Elementary

Located in the Point Breeze neighborhood of South Philadelphia, the Delaplaine McDaniel School is more than just a school; it is a lifeline for its students. This small public elementary school serves children from kindergarten through eighth grade, many of whom face significant food insecurity at home.

Delaplaine McDaniel School

McDaniel operates as an extended-day, extended-year school, opening its doors at 7 a.m. so every child can begin the day with breakfast and remaining open until 5 p.m. to ensure students have access to food well into the afternoon. Even during the summer months, students return not for classes, but for meals. Over Easter break this year, nearly half of the student body came to school every single day because it was their most reliable source of food.

But weekends present a different challenge. When the school doors close on Friday afternoon, that critical safety net disappears. For many students, the question is not what they want to eat; it is whether there will be anything to eat at all.

In response, The Junior League of Philadelphia (JLP) is rallying around the McDaniel community by hosting a food and snack donation drive throughout the month of April. The goal is simple but essential: to provide easy, grab-and-go snacks and meals that children can access independently, with no stove, no preparation, and no barriers.

We are collecting items students can easily grab and go and/or prepare themselves, including:

Grab-and-go snacks: granola bars, popcorn, pretzels, rice cakes, graham crackers, raisins and dried fruit, Goldfish crackers, fig bars, beef or turkey jerky, cheese crackers, tuna with crackers
Fruit and vegetables: fruit cups, veggie straws, freeze-dried fruit, applesauce cups or pouches
Easy meals: instant oatmeal packets, ramen or cup noodles, microwave soup cups, canned pasta (e.g., SpaghettiOs, ravioli), instant grits, mac and cheese cups, microwaveable rice pouches
Breakfast items: individual cereal boxes, Pop-Tarts or toaster pastries, breakfast bars, instant pancake mix, shelf-stable milk

Beverages: juice boxes, milk boxes (chocolate or plain), water bottles, sports drinks

Individual or single-serve packaging is most practical. Low-sugar and nut-free options are especially appreciated.

A key moment in the drive took place at the Junior League of Philadelphia’s Annual Meeting on April 21, where a Done In A Day (DIAD) table was set up during the Placement Fair. Members contributed generously, helping to kick off the collection with a strong show of support.

The drive is still ongoing, and donations are being accepted through April 30. Items can be dropped off at 710 Gawain Road, Plymouth Meeting, PA.

This effort reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every child has access to food, not just during the school week, but every day. Because every student deserves the security of knowing that when they are hungry, there will be something to eat, even on a Saturday night.

JLP’s 100 Meals Project Expands Its Reach, Delivering Nearly 300 Meals Across Philadelphia

The 100 Meals Project is a Junior League of Philadelphia initiative designed to address food insecurity by preparing and distributing fresh, ready-to-eat meals to community fridges across the city. Rooted in The Junior League of Philadelphia’s (JLP) commitment to strengthening communities, the project brings members together to take direct, meaningful action in support of a more food-secure Philadelphia. 

The JLP trialed two pilots in September and February, and it was evident our commitment translated into measurable impact. What began as a goal to deliver 100 meals quickly grew, with JLP members distributing nearly 300 meals through partnerships with Mama-Tee Community Fridge and South Philadelphia Community Fridge. The expansion not only increased the number of meals we provided, but also deepened the League’s connection to neighborhoods across the city. 

Each project day was intentionally designed to engage members at every step of the process. Volunteers gathered at JLP headquarters to prepare and package meals, working side by side to chop produce, assemble dishes, and create complete meal kits that included snacks, utensils, and water. This hands-on experience reinforced the collective effort behind every meal distributed. 

From there, the work extended into the community. Members stepped into the role of delivery drivers and assistants, transporting meals across five routes with multiple stops along the way. In total, the team stocked 14 community fridges, ensuring reliable access to fresh food in locations where it is needed most.


“This project is a powerful example of what’s possible when our members come together with purpose,” said Erin M. Nanovic, Director of Development for The Junior League of Philadelphia. “By expanding access to fresh, prepared meals, we’re not only meeting immediate needs, but also advancing our broader commitment to help Philadelphia become a more food-secure city. This work directly reflects our strategic focus on driving meaningful, community-centered impact.” 

As the 100 Meals Project continues to grow, it stands as a clear reflection of JLP’s mission in action—mobilizing members, strengthening partnerships, and delivering impact that extends well beyond a single day of service. 

 

Sustainers Fall Leadership Meeting
In October (sadly the same night the Phillies playoffs hopes were dashed) over 50 Sustainers
attended the Fall Membership Meeting at Teca Restaurant. After our meal and League
business, we were treated to a lecture by renowned cardiologist Dr Helene Glassberg, MD. Dr
Glassberg is a past professor of Cardiology at Penn and has been featured in the NY Times and
The Today Show. She has served as the Chairman of the Board of the Greater Philadelphia
Branch of the American Heart Association. She has been voted the Philadelphia Woman of
Heart, their woman of the year award.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and Dr Glassberg explained why both
cultural norms and biases built into the healthcare system contribute to that and the inequities
in diagnosis and treatment between women and men. Talking about the “Go Red For Women”
initiative, using an interactive format with the audience we learned about this and things that
we as women over 40 can do to stay healthy, lower our risks and learn to advocate for
ourselves in the healthcare system. She took questions from the audience on a wide variety of
additional topics, from taking aspirin to GLP-1 use. It was an incredibly informative evening!
The event was organized by Lauren Homel and Jamine Shechter.
The Junior League of Philadelphia Partner Philadelphia Orchard Project Welcomes New Executive Director
The Philadelphia Orchard Project (POP) celebrates an exciting milestone with the appointment of Vikram Krishnamurthy as its new Executive Director. With more than 25 years of experience in conservation, horticulture, and nonprofit leadership, Vikram brings deep expertise and a shared passion for POP’s mission to plant and support community orchards across Philadelphia.
Throughout his career, Vikram has strengthened horticultural and food systems in the greater Philadelphia region and served in leadership roles at American Forests, the Delaware Center for Horticulture, Fair Food Philadelphia, and the Center for Public Horticulture at the University of Delaware.
“POP’s deep community roots and the passion of its partners, supporters, and volunteers have long inspired me, and I’m honored to build on that legacy with our talented staff while helping the organization thrive in fresh, meaningful ways,” shared Vikram. “We’re grateful for partners like the Junior League of Philadelphia, as community collaboration is central to delivering on POP’s mission.”
As part of the transition, former Co-Executive Director Phil Forsyth will continue his work with POP as Director of Horticulture.
“JLP’s partnership with POP is rooted in our shared values of building sustainable community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and education,” shared Rose Cuozzo, JLP member and POP Board Vice President, who helped lead the executive search committee. “POP’s growth from a few orchards to 71 sites across Philadelphia shows what’s possible when communities unite with a bold vision and purpose.”
The Junior League of Philadelphia has supported POP for several years through hands-on volunteer work, board leadership, and a $48,000 grant to establish POP’s headquarters at The Woodlands, which includes a learning orchard, nursery, greenhouse, and high tunnels.
JLP members are invited to the Spring Plant Sale and Open House at the POP Learning Orchard at The Woodlands on May 16th. For details, visit Philadelphia Orchard Project.
Building Community Through League Socials

Earlier this League year, members gathered for a series of social events that brought fun, laughter, and connection to the fall and holiday season.

The festivities kicked off in October with Halloween-themed trivia at Well Crafted Ambler. While the team “A League of Their Own” might not have brought home the trophy, they had a great time at the Monster Mash trivia night—and absolutely crushed the candy bar logo section.

Pictured: Carolyn Hoehle, Michelle Goldblum, Rachel Gorrell, Kathyrn Hedrick, Ada Lubanski, Katherine Meester, and Amy Morrissey.
In November, the Friendsgiving potluck returned to HQ. Members showed off their culinary skills (or their knack for pairing the perfect wine with turkey) while enjoying a festive evening together.
December wrapped up the 2025 holiday season with a wreath-making class. HQ was filled with the scent of pine and plenty of laughter, kicking off the festive season on the right foot. There’s something special about creating your own wreath rather than buying one, and League members left with beautiful creations to brighten their doors throughout the season.
Pictured: Dalia Omran, Raquel Doke, Sara Mattio, Lisa Carosella, Erica Simpson, Pam Phojanakong, Averie Valiga, Amy Branson, Samantha Williams
During the first half of the League year, the Social Committee has done a wonderful job creating opportunities for connection and fostering a strong sense of community. Be sure to keep an eye on the calendar—there’s more fun to come!
A Legacy of Service: Celebrating This Year’s Special Sustainers

The Sustainers Spring Luncheon will be held on Sunday, April 26, at Paxon Hollow Golf Club. A highlight of this annual gathering is the recognition of members who have reached Special Sustainer status in the current league year—members who are age 80 and no longer responsible for dues, yet whose legacy of service continues to shape our League.

This year, we are proud to honor seven remarkable women: Amy Webersinn, Anne Rhoads, Leslie Marshall, Winnie Doherty, Betsy Daly, Mary Emery, and Patti Thorpe.

Three joined the Junior League of Philadelphia as new members, while four transferred from other Leagues. Among them is a past JLP president, and one member joined as a Provisional while still in college, patiently waiting a few years to complete her Provisional course.

As Actives, they dedicated their time and talents to the Family Support Committee, Community Research Projects, Art Goes to School, Public Affairs, executive board leadership, the Outgrown Shop, Follies, and more. As Sustainers, their engagement continued through Cooking Klatch, Evening Sustainers, Hospitality, Theater Trip, Bridge, and other activities that strengthen connection and camaraderie within our League.

Their community involvement beyond the League is equally impressive and reflects a lifetime commitment to service.

Please join us in offering your congratulations and in celebrating these extraordinary members. Reserve your seat at the luncheon through the Event Calendar on the website or by calling the office.

Know Your Rights: Standing Together in Solidarity
Members gathered for Know Your Rights: Understanding the Collective Rights of Immigrants and Citizens at JLP Headquarters for a timely and meaningful conversation focused on collective rights, community power, and solidarity. The event took place in the Community Room, where attendees connected over light refreshments and shared learning with other JLPers who joined virtually.

 

Our featured speaker, Alexandra Wolkoff (pictured above), joined us from Juntos, a community-led Latine immigrant organization based in South Philadelphia. Alexandra shared how Jun

tos is fighting for human rights as workers, parents, youth, and immigrants through grassroots organizing, leadership development, and strategic collaboration. She highlighted the organization’s leadership in standing against violent immigration enforcement that erodes the collective rights of all communities. She emphasized that support of immigrants should be rooted in human rights and not solely in the economic value immigrants may bring to our communities.

During the session, participants learned more about Juntos’ work in this moment, reviewed critical Know Your Rights information, and explored concrete resources and opportunities to stand in solidarity with immigrant communities. The gathering reinforced JLP’s shared commitment to justice, dignity, and collective action, and we are grateful to everyone who joined us for this important conversation. You can learn more about how to get involved with Juntos by visiting https://www.vamosjuntos.org .
JLP Thrift Shop
Placement = Possibility: Shaping Your Next League Year

 

JLP Thrift Shop

While it may feel early to think about next year, now is the ideal time to pause, reflect, and intentionally plan your JLP journey for the 2026–2027 League year. Placement is more than selecting a committee to fulfill your annual requirements—it’s an opportunity to shape your League experience, expand your skills, and deepen your impact across Philadelphia.

Reflect Before You Select

Before the Placement Matching Tool goes live in the spring, take a moment over the coming weeks to reflect on your current League year and what you hope to gain:

  • How has my committee supported me—and how have I contributed?
  • What aspects of my experience have been most fulfilling? Which have been less so?
  • What skills have I developed, and what new skills would I like to build?
  • Am I on track to complete all League obligations?

Pro tip: Planning ahead makes a difference. Completing your Thrift Shop shift, Quota, and Ways & Means credit early in the League year ensures you meet all requirements well before the April 30 deadline—and positions you strongly for placement consideration.

Using the Placement Matching Tool

Once the Placement Matching Tool goes live on Digital Cheetah in the spring, you can access it by following the instructions below:

  1. Log in to Digital Cheetah
  2. Hover over the Resources tab
  3. Select Placement Matching Tool

The Placement Committee works diligently to honor members’ top three committee preferences, and you may edit your responses if your preferences change. Members who meet their requirements before April 30 increase their chances of being placed on one of their preferred committees.

Know Your Obligations

As you prepare for the upcoming League year, ensure you are on track to meet the following requirements:

  • 75% committee participation
  • Attendance at the Annual Meeting
  • Completion of the Placement Matching Tool
  • Thrift Shop shift
  • Thrift Shop quota
  • Ways & Means credit
  • Mission credit or General Meeting requirement
  • 2026–2027 dues paid by April 30, 2026
    (Enrollment in the installment plan satisfies this requirement)

Questions? Contact your 2025-2026 Placement Committee Chairs, Joan Allmaras and Malikah Cliett at placement@jlphiladelphia.org.

An Evening of Elegance: Estia and the Philly Pops

On Sunday, December 14th, a small group of Junior League of Philadelphia Sustainers ventured
into Center City for dinner at Estia followed by the Philly Pops Holiday Spectacular at the
Kimmel Center. Estia’s warm Mediterranean atmosphere was a welcome retreat from the cold.
The food was excellent and the company even better.

It had been a while since some of us had gotten together, but we fell right back into sync, catching up on everyone’s lives and even learning a few AI tricks from some of our more tech-savvy friends. There’s something about gathering with tenured friends over a great meal that makes any evening special.

After dinner, we braved the cold and snow and made our way over to the Kimmel Center. The
Philly Pops Holiday Spectacular was wonderful, and it was so nice to see them back performing
again. The orchestra performed a beautiful selection of Christmas classics and festive
arrangements that had everyone in the holiday spirit. What made it even more special was
seeing one of our own, singing as a member of the choir. It was wonderful to see Bertina
Whytehead in her element, and it added such a personal connection to the performance and
gave us all an extra reason to beam with pride. The performance was excellent and the energy
in the hall was infectious. It truly was a wonderful evening!

Another JLP Holiday Cookie Exchange in the Books!

plates of holiday cookies displayed on a red tablecloth

A chill was in the air, the tables were adorned with red, and the attendees were wearing their holiday best…you guessed it, this was the 2025 cookie exchange!

For the 5th year in a row, the annual JLP Holiday Cookie Exchange was held at Headquarters on December 7th to celebrate the holidays with some delicious treats and good company. What originally began as an event held exclusively for New Members now welcomes all JLPers to attend, no matter how long they have been part of the League.

Attendees were asked to bring three dozen of their chosen treats to share with the group and were also encouraged to bring along a container or bag(s) to take their favorite cookies home to enjoy later. You can be certain that no cookies were left behind!

Since the cookie exchange has transformed from a New Member event to a general social event, it was hosted this year by the Social Committee, who kindly provided a number of non-cookie items that included hoagies, cheese and crackers, fruit, and juices. Attendees were given the chance to partake of this spread before migrating to the main meeting area at Headquarters, where a group picture was taken and then the actual exchange of baked goods commenced. While there was a slightly smaller turnout for this year’s event, the selection of cookies was still abundant: classics like sugar and chocolate chip, plus some unique newcomers like cherry snowballs, peanut butter miso, and toffee chocolate chip.

The cookie exchange offers an opportunity not only to exercise culinary creativity, but also for JLPers to mingle with other League members who they might not otherwise get the chance to meet, fostering community in a low-key setting while kicking off the holiday season. Hopefully, this event will only continue to grow in popularity in the coming years.

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