Frank W. Harris
President 1952-1968

The Blind Relief Fund of Philadelphia was established in 1909 by Mrs. Isabel Kennedy.  Mrs. Kennedy visited blind Philadelphians in their homes and became aware of their overwhelming need for the basic necessities of life.  Although there were agencies devoted to educating the blind, no funds were available for financial or material relief.

During the first winter of its existence, the Fund distributed coal, groceries, clothing and small gifts of money to 75 needy blind persons.  concerned with the social and emotional needs of the blind, Mrs. Kennedy organized  various recreational activities and an annual summer outing.  In 1920, through an anonymous gift of $10,000 in well invested securities, an endowment fund was established.

Today, The Blind Relief Fund of Philadelphia continues to be the only agency of its kind in Philadelphia, a private, non-profit, totally independent agency serving over 500 members of Philadelphia's needy blind community each year.  Our annual budget is $425,000 of which 75% goes directly to client services.