The Pew Charitable Trusts recently announced awards totaling $4,386,000 that will be allocated to 31 Philadelphia-area organizations over the course of three years. The foundation made the awards through the Pew Fund for Health and Human Services to groups that are serving the area's elderly population.

Organizations that received funding are helping elderly citizens maintain their health and independence. The 31 award recipients will provide a number of services, including counseling, basic and personal care and respite for family members.

In order to maintain accurate accounts of all awards, funding donors could use innovative services such as nonprofit grant management software. These services allow donors to track funds individually so they can ensure the money is being allocated correctly.

Organizations that received funding from the Pew Charitable Trusts focused on four areas of concern: basic needs assistance; safe and independent living; high-quality supportive services and informal care; and social isolation and depression.

"The Philadelphia region is home to thousands of elderly who not only face economic hardship, but isolation, and health and mobility challenges that seriously compromise their quality of life," said Pew Fund director Frazierita Klasen. "We are fortunate to have many strong organizations that are able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these vulnerable seniors."