FLUSHING – The Ohio Department of Aging provided the Area Agency on Aging Region 9 with additional funding for a new, short-term meal delivery program for older adults affected by the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.
As part of the Stay Healthy program, regional aging agencies and local small business restaurants are hired to deliver free meals to seniors in our communities.
“By investing in local and run restaurants, we can meet the increased demand for older adults who need eating assistance as they continue to protect themselves from the virus.” said Ursel J. McElroy, director of the Ohio Department of Aging. “We recognize the Area Agency on Aging Region 9 as a local leader who can bring multiple sectors together to protect vulnerable older adults.”
“We’ll use these funds to work with new community partners and help our neighbors most in need.” added Jim Endly, CEO / President AAA9. “It’s a win-win-win situation. Ultimately, our seniors, our local businesses and their employees all benefit from this innovative approach. We are excited to partner with Carpenter’s Pizzeria to launch our initiative. “
Participating restaurants must have 50 or fewer employees, be able to prepare meals that conform to industry dietary guidelines, and be able to deliver meals to attendees either directly or through community partners.
The Regional Aging Agency Region 9 will lead the program locally, with a focus on caring for seniors with the greatest social and economic needs, e.g. B. Low-income seniors living in rural areas with severe disabilities and limited English language skills, or with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders.
Funding for a healthy life is provided by the federal law on aid, assistance and economic security for coronaviruses.
For more information on the Staying Healthy program or other services offered by the Regional Agency for Age Region 9, call 1-844-932-7277 and select option 7.
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