Tarentum personal care home shuts doors; 47 move out in cold Friday

TARENTUM, Pa. — Friday was moving day for 47 people at the Allegheny Valley Residence personal care home in Tarentum.

"Just packing up in this bitter cold," said Frank Conocchia, a six year resident.

The residents were notified weeks ago that the home was closing at the end of the month.  They were planning on that but suddenly on Thursday, they were told they had to be out Friday.

"Everything has gone haywire.  I have to find another new place," said resident Karen Stockert.

Most residents had secured new places to live, but family and staff are scrambling to find homes for others.

The parent company, New Hope of Scranton, put in its 30 day closing notice with the Department of Welfare last week. 

When Channel 11 reporter Jodine Costanzo called the department Friday, she was told the company notified them Thursday that they had to close the doors immediately because they had no money for payroll or food.

About 15 workers are without jobs.

"I am very sad. It's heartbreaking," said staff member Josie Linardi.

The department told Channel 11 they'll issue reimbursement checks to the homes where residents are moving and also investigate possible regulatory action against the owner.

WPXI