For more than 150 years, NewCourtland has been committed to providing support services and programs to improve the quality of life for Philadelphia seniors. Founded in the 1860s as the Presbyterian Hospital, the organization has evolved to meet the changing needs of the city, always guided by its vision of creating equitable access to a healthy life.

Today, NewCourtland continues that legacy by serving low-income seniors, veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, and other at-risk populations. Through innovative housing developments, integrated healthcare, and supportive programming, the organization helps thousands of Philadelphians live with dignity, stability, and opportunity.

A Legacy of Service

The Presbyterian Hospital’s original mandate—to serve the poor and underserved—still guides NewCourtland today. After the hospital was sold to the University of Pennsylvania Health System in the late 20th century, the proceeds established the Presbyterian Foundation. From this foundation, NewCourtland was born in 1993, continuing more than a century of care for Philadelphia residents.

“We may pivot in how we do it, but the mission has always been the same,” explains John Ungar, Corporate Counsel and Director of Planning. “Housing and health are at the core.”

Innovation at The Tower at Henry

One of NewCourtland’s most ambitious projects to date is The Tower at Henry, an inclusive housing development that reimagines what community living can look like. Unlike traditional affordable housing models, the Tower was self-financed and designed to welcome residents of different ages, incomes, and abilities.

The development includes 20 specially equipped “smart” units in partnership with Inglis, outfitted with high-tech accessibility features like automatic door openers and voice-activated controls. Beyond the technology, the building itself fosters community, offering a mix of unit sizes—from studios to three-bedrooms—and intentionally creating space for both affordability and diversity.

“We believe people want to live in a diverse community.” Ungar says. “The Tower isn’t just about providing apartments—it’s about creating connections.”

As part of this vision, Blueprint Commercial is partnering with NewCourtland to lease flexible, customizable commercial space at The Tower at Henry. The property features a 6,909 SF medical suite alongside three shell condition spaces ranging in size from 2,800-5,000 SF ready for build-out, ideal for retail, medical, office, or service use. These spaces will bring essential services and businesses directly into the building, enhancing the daily life of residents while creating new opportunities for the broader East Falls community.

Partnerships and Community Impact

Collaboration is central to NewCourtland’s approach. The organization partners with nonprofits, universities, neighborhood associations, and local government to expand its reach. Partnerships with groups like Allegheny West and Heroic Gardens support both housing development and community engagement, from job fairs to therapeutic gardening programs for veterans.

Meeting Challenges with Creativity

Like many affordable housing providers, NewCourtland faces challenges in navigating the time-consuming and costly development process. Traditional funding methods often slow progress, but the team continues to explore innovative approaches.

“We want to find ways to do this more efficiently,” Ungar notes. “The demand for affordable housing is immediate, and the city desperately needs it.”

Looking Ahead

As Philadelphia pursues ambitious housing goals, including Mayor Parker’s plan for 30,000 new homes, NewCourtland is well-positioned to play a key role. By combining its legacy of service with forward-looking models of inclusive housing and community health, the organization continues to shape not just where people live, but how they thrive.

“Our goal is bigger than just building units,” says Ungar. “We want to create places where people are supported, connected, and truly part of a community.”

How to Support

While donations are welcomed to support programming at senior centers and nursing homes, NewCourtland places equal value on partnership and community involvement. Volunteer opportunities, collaboration with local businesses, and program support are always encouraged.

For more information, visit NewCourtland.org.