JeffHOPE

Every year, approximately 15,000 people use shelters throughout the city of Philadelphia. And just a fraction of these individuals have access to the medical care and advocacy services they sorely need. Founded in 1991, JeffHOPE (Health Opportunities, Prevention, and Education) is a student-run organization within Sidney Kimmel Medical College that aims to improve access to healthcare for the homeless and underserved population of Philadelphia, as well as to educate students, residents, and faculty members about medical issues, homelessness, and poverty. It is our hidden gem — a perfect encapsulation of Jefferson’s institutional values of putting people first, thinking differently, and doing the right thing.

The JeffHOPE team helps thousands of individuals each year enter the healthcare system, providing medical care, advocacy, transportation assistance, nutritional and financial counseling, health education, and so much more. And they do it all on a shoestring budget. Philanthropy is an essential source of support for key needs like clinic renovations, vehicles, electronic medical records, and expansion of services.