Pennsauken, NJ – Last night, members of the Philadelphia Hellenic Federation gathered at the Pan Icarian House in Pennsauken to mark the start of the new year. Representatives from dozens of Greek-American organizations came together to share a meal, cut the traditional Vasilopita, and get down to business.
The meeting opened with warm wishes and catching up, but the conversation soon turned to two major events on the horizon: the annual Greek Independence Day Parade and a special benefit concert taking place this weekend.
While much attention was given to early preparations for the parade, all eyes turned to the more urgent matter—the upcoming concert for victims of Hurricane Sandy. Set for this Saturday night at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Upper Darby, the event is being called one of the most meaningful efforts in recent memory by the Federation of Hellenic American Societies.
“All funds raised from this concert will go directly to the Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund,” said Federation President Dimitris Rozanitis. The fund has been established by the Metropolis of New Jersey, and distribution will be overseen by Metropolis Philoptochos President Ann Michaels and her team. Relief efforts will focus on the hardest-hit areas of New Jersey and New York.
Those unable to attend can still contribute. Donations by check should be made out to the Hellenic Federation of Philadelphia (FHAS) and sent to:
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
229 Powell Lane
Upper Darby, PA 19082
“This Saturday night, the eyes of the national Greek-American community will be on Philadelphia,” Rozanitis said, highlighting the importance of this one-night-only event. “Our community is leading the way to help our fellow Hellenes get back on their feet.”
The devastation from Hurricane Sandy continues to draw national attention, with frustration growing over delays in federal relief. The Philadelphia Greek community is hoping this effort can offer some comfort and real help where it’s needed most.
For more information about the concert, visit Cosmos Philly online and read more under Hurricane Sandy Dinner Dance.
As the meeting continued, leaders discussed upcoming events throughout the community. With winter in full swing and spring around the corner, many local societies announced their annual celebrations. The growing number of overlapping events sparked a conversation about the need for a shared community calendar. That’s when several younger members of the Federation volunteered to launch a Facebook page and Google Calendar to keep everyone informed. Their offer was met with cheers and applause.
The evening closed on a high note, with hugs, well wishes, and a renewed sense of unity for the year ahead.