Salvation Army Greater Phildelphia Raises $257,531 for Senior Services at Annual Luncheon
Funds will support programs and services for older adults across Philadelphia; three local leaders honored for their service to the community
Anika "Niki" Hawkins accepts the "Doing the Most Good" award from Salvation Army leadership, Karen Rogers, and Loree Jones Brown.
The Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia raised $257,531 to support programs and services for older adults across Philadelphia during its 2026 Celebrate Hope Annual Luncheon, while honoring three local leaders for their service to others. The organization’s premier fundraising event, held at the Crystal Tea Room, brought together business leaders, community partners and public servants in support of The Salvation Army's work throughout the city.
The funds will support programs that help older adults remain connected to their communities and maintain their independence through basic needs assistance, housing support, wellness activities and opportunities for social connection.
"Our senior programs nurture the social and emotional well-being of our older adults, ensuring that they stay connected. It's one of our main goals that they stay connected so they can continue to thrive and feel valued,” said Lt. Colonel Edgar George, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division.
This year’s luncheon also recognized Anika “Niki” Hawkins, Vice President of Community Engagement & Strategic Partnerships at 6abc WPVI-TV Philadelphia, with the “Doing the Most Good Community Leadership” Award; Cynthia F. Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services, with the “Eliza Shirley Women in Leadership” Award; and U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans, representing Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District, with the “Others” Award.
Cynthia Figueroa accepts the "Eliza Shirley Women in Leadership" award from Salvation Army Leadership, Rev. Bonnie Camarda, and Pedro Ramos.
“This year’s honorees reflect The Salvation Army’s mission and values in action,” said Captain Benjamin Lyle, Area Commander of The Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia. “Through their leadership, service and advocacy, they have made a lasting impact on Philadelphians. We are proud to recognize their contributions as we continue working to meet critical needs across our city, including helping older adults remain connected, supported and independent.”
Hawkins, recipient of the “Doing the Most Good Community Leadership” Award, was recognized for her outstanding community service and commitment to helping others thrive. At 6abc, Hawkins develops partnerships with nonprofit organizations, creates community-focused content and coordinates corporate social responsibility initiatives and philanthropic giving throughout the Philadelphia region.
Figueroa, recipient of the “Eliza Shirley Women in Leadership” Award, was recognized for her dedication to service, community and faith. Figueroa leads more than 1,600 JEVS employees across Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, providing essential services to more than 18,000 people annually. She previously served as Philadelphia’s Deputy Mayor for the Office of Children and Families and has more than 25 years of experience in government and nonprofit human services.
Staff member Felicia Parker-Cox accepts the "Others" award on behalf of Congressman Dwight Evans, presented by Salvation Army leadership and Rev. Bonnie Camarda.
Congressman Evans, recipient of the “Others” Award, was recognized for his longstanding commitment to public service. Evans has represented Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District since 2019, following decades of service in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He currently serves on the House Ways and Means Committee and has focused his public service on economic and educational opportunities, affordable housing and strengthening the social safety net.
For more information or to support The Salvation Army Greater Philadelphia, visit www.SAPhilly.org.