Carson Valley Children’s Aid to close, resulting in the loss of 96 jobs.
Philadelphia’s Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) has announced the impending closure of all remaining services at Carson Valley Children’s Aid, located in Flourtown, by mid-September. This decision, detailed in a recent statement, will result in the loss of 96 jobs, marking a significant reduction in the community’s support resources.
PHMC previously discontinued Carson Valley’s residential treatment program for youth with behavioral health needs, a decision that came approximately two years after acquiring the nonprofit, originally established in 1917 as Carson College for Orphaned Girls. The current closure underscores ongoing financial challenges faced by the organization, with the remaining programs set to be dismantled within a few months.
Among the affected services are a well-regarded nursery school and childcare center, a rapid response service intended to aid families in crisis, and case management services aimed at addressing the issue of excessive school absences among students in Philadelphia. These programs have played a vital role in supporting the community, particularly for those in dire need of assistance.
A recent notice submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry outlines the specific job cuts: 51 positions will be eliminated in Flourtown, 33 at 2300 W. Allegheny Ave. in Philadelphia, 10 at 800 W. Olney Ave. in Philadelphia, and two at 1314 DeKalb St. in Norristown.
Despite the efforts made by PHMC, Carson Valley has struggled with financial viability for several years, with the organization experiencing five consecutive years of operating losses. Historical financial records indicate that, in certain fiscal years, Carson Valley had to rely on loans from a beneficial trust that owns its campus to cover debts or meet operational expenses.
Under PHMC’s stewardship, the financial landscape for Carson Valley has not improved. The agency noted that the financial burden associated with the 70-acre campus, along with accumulated debts, has rendered operations unsustainable. While PHMC considered the alternative of bankruptcy for the subsidiary, an announcement clarified that officials opted to cease operations entirely.
The closure of Carson Valley Children’s Aid not only represents a significant workforce reduction but also highlights the broader issues of financial distress in health and human services organizations. The impact of these service closures is poised to have lasting ramifications within the community.
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