The Philadelphia Protestant Home, 6401 Martins Mill Road, on Monday hosted a Centenarian Celebration in its social hall.
In all, there are 18 PPH residents who are either 100 or will reach the milestone by the end of the year.
The group consists of 14 women and four men.
All of the men are World War II veterans.
Bill Conaway, PPH’s director of community relations, noted the technological, political and social movement changes that have taken place during the last 100 years.
Conaway said the wisdom and experience of the centenarians are “invaluable.”
“We have much to learn from you,” he told the honorees.
Others who attended the ceremony included John Dubyk, PPH’s president and CEO; state Sen. Tina Tartaglione (D-2nd dist.); state Rep. Anthony Bellmon (D-203rd dist.); and Pastor Peter Ahn, PPH’s director of chaplain services, who offered a prayer.
“One-hundred years,” Tartaglione said. “That is an amazing accomplishment. The Protestant Home is definitely doing something right.”
Bellmon handed out birthday cards to each 100-year-old.
The honorees were also treated to lunch and a commemorative certificate.
The oldest resident is Cecelia Amato, who is 106 and lives independently.
PPH credits its staff for the dedication and care provided to residents.
The facility promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages residents to maintain active and fulfilling lives through exercise programs, social events and cultural outings.
Dubyk also attributed the residents’ longevity to their strength and resilience. ••
