Citizens Should be Aware of Upcoming Deadlines to Apply for Assistance
PHILADELPHIA — The City of Philadelphia is encouraging residents and businesses to be aware of important deadlines approaching for some of the recovery support services that have been offered since the airplane crash in Northeast Philadelphia almost 30 days ago on January 31, 2025.
The City has been operating an emergency services mobile center at 2301 Cottman Avenue since the tragedy and will begin to transition the center today, Friday, February 21 at 4 p.m. While the mobile unit is moving from the current location, services will continue to be available at the City’s Neighborhood and Community Action Center located at 7374 Edmund Street. The center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The City has established a hotline for ongoing case management and support. Anyone needing resources or follow-up can call 215-586-3400. The online blog, which includes a Resource Assistance Directory, will continue to be updated.
Since many people are still seeking services for trauma and other mental health issues, the City’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services has mental health supports available 24/7. If you’re in immediate crisis, call or text 988. If you are seeking behavioral health support and services, visit healthymindsphilly.org.
The City’s Office of Licenses & Inspections advises any residents still concerned about structural damage to call 311 or contact the Department’s Contractual Services Unit (CSU) directly at (215) 686-2480 (7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. daily). Inspectors will visit homes in the affected area free of charge.
TWO IMPORTANT DEADLINES:
Red Cross’ Case Deadline
Support services are still available through the American Red Cross. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) by Wednesday, February 26, 2025 to open a case and see if you are eligible for financial assistance in addition to other services.
Small Business Support
Small businesses can apply for up to $20,000 in grant support through The Merchants Fund Emergency Relief Grants – established in partnership with the Department of Commerce – to help alleviate economic hardship caused by the plane crash disaster. The application deadline to apply is February 28, 2025. Learn more about eligibility criteria and apply.
The Mayor’s Business Action Team continues to provide personalized assistance by holding in-person office hours. Staff can assist with questions, operational challenges, financial support program applications, and share resources. Upcoming dates are today, Friday, February 21, Tuesday,y February 25, and Frida,y February 28 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Northeast Regional Library 2228 Cottman Avenue, 19149. Find more details here.
One Philly Fund Assistance
The One Philly Fund, established by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and the Parker administration in partnership with the Philadelphia City Fund, was created to directly support survivors of disasters that occur in Philadelphia. The fund continues to accept monetary donations from individuals and businesses that go directly to those affected by the aircraft crash incident. Click here to learn more about eligibility and to apply for financial support.
Executive Order
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker signed Declaration of Disaster Emergency Executive Order 2-25 which recognizes the impact of the medical aircraft crash on City infrastructure, property damage, business losses, trauma experienced by the community and enables the City to pursue all eligible public assistance and grants to aid in recovery.