The Largest Christian Women’s Philanthropic Organization in the Nstion, with 475 chapters and 30,000 members
1930s
Philoptohos was founded in 1931 by Archbishop (and later Patriarch) Athenagoras. During the historic depression that left Americans economically and emotionally bereft, Philoptohos responded vigorously to the needs of its community.
1940's & 1950’s
Philoptohos purchased an estate on the cliffs of the Hudson, which became a haven for children from war-torn Greece. In the 1950’s, it was the site of a respected Teachers College, and today is Saint Basil’s Academy, a home away from home for children in need.
1960's
Philoptohos initiated the Cardiac Program at the Cornell Medical Center in N.Y., and children from Greece were brought to the U.S.A. for life-saving cardiac surgery. (Recently, Philoptohos funded a program for cardiologists in Chicago and Athens, which provides a computer link up, allowing them to monitor surgical procedures as they occur.)
1970s
Philoptohos contributed 2.5 million dollars to the Foster Parent Program, helping Cypriot children after the invasion of Cyprus.
1980s
Philoptohos sponsored a forum on AIDS, bringing medical and psychiatric experts together with religious leaders to discuss what we now know was just the start of a deadly epidemic. Later, Philoptohos became a major supporter of the Ellis Island Restoration Program.
1990s
Philoptohos established the Children’s Medical Fund and distributed over 1.2 million dollars to children’s hospitals in the U.S.A. and recently in Greece.
Last Decade
Philoptohos raised over nine million dollars through funds collected from the 475 Philoptohos Chapters, including our own Saint Sophia Philoptohos Society.