North Light Community Center Receives Grant from Green Tree Community Health Foundation to Continue Programs Focused on Nutrition

North Light Community Center, 175 Green Lane, has received a $15,000 grant from the Green Tree Community Health Foundation for general operating support to continue programs focusing on nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Announcement of the grant was made by Susan Hansen, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Foundation, on behalf of the board of directors on August, 19, 2013.

Irene A. Madrak, executive director, North Light, said the funds would be used to help keep a wide variety of programs that emphasis health available to children, teens and families.  “We’re thrilled with the gift from Green Tree. The Foundation’s on-going generosity will aid in our ability to have a positive impact in the neighborhood,” said Madrak.

Nutrition and healthy life styles are themes throughout most of North Light’s programs. This year’s summer camp, Eating Healthy and Living Stronger, included age-appropriate cooking lessons to make healthy snacks along with fitness classes.  This summer’s Work Ready program, paid summer internships, placed six high school juniors and seniors at health-related worksites.  Teens 4 Good is a youth-led urban farming business in which young people plant, harvest and market fresh produce to the community. North Light’s parenting program includes nutrition workshops. Also North Light’s partnership with Whole Foods Market in Plymouth Meeting, in conjunction with Philabundance, adds fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to the agency’s food cupboard, improving the quality of food offered.

A community health advocate, the Green Tree Community Health Foundation is a not-for-profit public charity that identifies areas of vulnerability in the communities of Northwest Philadelphia and Eastern Montgomery County and provides funding to organizations whose work addresses these needs. The Foundation seeks to have a positive impact on current and emerging health issues and risks, empowering residents to access health services and value, embrace and maintain their health.

North Light Community Center is a multi-service, community based non-profit organization located at 175 Green Lane. Founded in 1936, North Light’s mission is to enable people of all ages and abilities in our communities, especially those most in need, to reach their full potential as productive and responsible citizens through initiatives that support and enrich children, teens, and families. North Light’s vision is to support and strengthen our diverse neighborhoods by meeting the evolving needs of individuals and families, working to develop the whole person from educating to providing sustenance, and thus, cultivate a vibrant community. Current services include year-round licensed childcare for school age children, tutoring, youth development programs, arts and recreation, emergency supports, parenting workshops, teen employment, and neighborhood access to technology. For additional information about North Light’s programs and services, visit www.northlightcommunitycenter.org or call 215-483-4800.