Mission & History

An 18th Century French Writer once wrote, “To accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.” A consortium of local professionals, spearheaded by Dr. Michael Denny, personified those words when they recognized the urgent need for quality healthcare in Blair County and then established a not-for-profit organization – the Blair County Collaborating Home Nursing Agency, which in time was referred to solely as Home Nursing Agency.

The Agency evolved into a trusted leader in the community health network. This ability to serve was strengthened in 2013 when Home Nursing Agency became part of UPMC. Over time, the Agency’s services were rebranded along service lines, with UPMC Home Healthcare of Central Pennsylvania providing home health services, and Family Hospice providing care for those with life-limiting illnesses and their caregivers. Children’s services such as Nuse-Family Partnership®, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Nutrition Program, Early Intervention, and the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program continue to be offered for families in West Central Pennsylvania.

Established in 1984, the Home Nursing Agency Foundation is the charitable arm to provide financial and advisory support to create, improve, or enhance the programs and services of UPMC Home Healthcare of Central Pennsylvania and Family Hospice that ultimately results in a benefit to the individual, family, and community. The personal support of individuals and the community, coupled with proceeds from fundraising events, makes Mission Grants possible. These funds directly impact patients and clients served by UPMC Home Healthcare, Family Hospice, and the children’s services.

a mother smiling with two children on a bench