About Telespond

Our Mission

Telespond Senior Services provides life-enriching services to older adults and their families on a community-wide and individual basis.


We Aim to...

Provide high-quality, community-based care to older adults and caregivers
Enhance the well-being of older adults by promoting independent living
Offer low-cost alternatives to institutionalized care
Collaborate with service providers and healthcare experts to ensure effective delivery of programs

Telespond Senior Services First Board of Directors

Sister Patrice Mary Kenny

Our History

Inspired by the radical work of Maggie Kuhn, founder of the Gray Panthers, Sister Patrice Mary Kenny, R.S.M, Father John A. Essef, and Mr. Peter Barrasse joined efforts in their pursuit for ways to provide both education and advocacy for older adults in Lackawanna County. In 1974 they opened doors to Telespond Senior Services, and began the work to shatter stereotypes which kept older adults marginalized. Today, Telespond continues to uphold its mission to ensure that older adults live healthy, independent, and dignified lives within the communities they know and love.



Over the years, Telespond has expanded to offer a variety of programs and services designed to meet the evolving needs of seniors, caregivers, and the community. Today, our organization provides adult day services, home care, older adult advocacy initiatives, transportation assistance, and volunteer programs that enrich lives through meaningful connection, compassionate support, and community engagement.


One of Telespond’s longest-standing programs is our Adult Day Center, which provides active programming and supportive care for individuals age 55 and older with a wide range of cognitive and physical abilities. The program serves older adults who may require assistance with activities of daily living, benefit from regular health supervision, or need additional support following hospitalization or rehabilitation.


Located at 1200 Saginaw Street in Scranton, our Adult Day Center welcomes participants from across Northeastern Pennsylvania through our transportation program. In addition to daily social and recreational activities, clients have access to personal care support and wellness-focused services designed to promote independence, comfort, and quality of life.