Resident emergency fund
International House Philadelphia is proud to announce the launch of the IHP Resident Emergency Fund . This fund is an initiative of the IHP Alumni Council and will begin distributing funds to qualifying residents once an initial $ 10,000 has been raised .
Entirely dependent on donations , the International House Philadelphia Resident Emergency Fund will provide limited emergency financial assistance on a case-by-case basis to a small number of IHP residents who are unable to meet immediate , essential expenses due to an emergency situation such as accidents , illness , death of a family member , or fire damage , among others .
You will be glad to know that all donations will be matched up to the first $ 5,000 by a generous pledge made by fellow IHP Alumnus and Alumni Council Member , Chuck Gupta ( IHP 56 ).
As Jan Colijn ( IHP ‘ 70- ’ 75 ) who pledged the first $ 500 writes :
“ When I first came to IHP , I had rent to pay as a resident fellow , but as F1 Visa holders could not work apart from in the summer , I was poor ! I remember going to Horn & Hardart , where you could get a roll and a coffee for a dollar . You could load up on free condiments to actually have a meal . I have known fellow residents from Eritrea , Palestine , India , and other places where all of a sudden money dries up , and they become desperate . I remember receiving $ 500 from the Netherlands- America Foundation ; a loan at the time , but also a life vest . It is my hope that others can benefit from such assistance , too .”
Help us in the effort to assist our residents by donating online or writing a check to International House Philadelphia . Please make sure to note that you donation is intended for the “ Resident Emergency Fund ”. For more information about making a financial contribution contact : Jessamyn Falcone at 215.387.5142 , or email jessamynf @ ihphilly . org . Please send checks to :
International House Philadelphia Attn : Development 3701 Chestnut Street Philadelphia , PA 19104
Alumni and Friends of International House Philadelphia Newsletter – July 2013