05/27/2026
At 2121 North Howard Street, a new CAICU mural is helping tell a larger story of dignity, community and care.
Through a partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia, Catholic Charities of Philadelphia is celebrating the seniors who make Norris Square Senior Community Center and Casa Carmen Aponte Apartments such personal and connected places.
CAICU, a Taíno word for “land bridge,” reflects the project’s connection between Norris Square, Philadelphia and Loíza, Puerto Rico. The mural celebrates the Puerto Rican heritage of Norris Square and features Grupo Alegría, symbols of Puerto Rican heritage and an image of Carmen Aponte, founder of Casa Carmen Aponte Apartments.
Located near Norris Square Park, Casa Carmen Aponte Apartments, an affordable housing complex for seniors developed and operated jointly by Catholic Charities of Philadelphia and Xiente, serves low-income seniors ages 62 and older. The community carries forward Carmen’s legacy while reflecting the work that continues today: ensuring seniors feel seen, supported and cared for with dignity, love and respect.