The Office for the Aging Nutrition Program provides meals to help older adults remain independent in their homes while maintaining good nutrition. Volunteers deliver the meals Monday through Friday (except Holidays) to cities , villages and some towns.
Who is eligible?
Meals are available to adults age 60 years or older who meet New York State Office for the Aging eligibility requirements. We serve a regular diet only and need a prescription from the primary doctor stating that a regular diet is appropriate. However, we strive to provide "heart healthy" meals by lowering the sodium and fat and including whole grains and fresh fruit and vegtables in our meals.
What if meals are needed immediately?
There may be instances where meals are needed immediately or on a short term basis. Such as: a senior is discharged from the hospital and needs meals during recovery. For this and other similar circumstances, we may provide up to 10 hot or frozen meals.
What do we do to get meals started?
A referral may be made by the person needing the meals, their family, friend, neighbor, hospital, social worker or the doctor's office. Call the Office for the Aging at (585) 396-4040 or (315) 781-1321 and ask to make a referral to the Home Delivered Meal Program. A staff member will contact the person to set up an appointment for an assessment for the meals and any other needs they may have.
There may be a waiting list for hot meals at the time of the referral, in which case you may be offered frozen meals and as soon as an opening is available the hot meal delivery will be started.
What is the cost?
There is no cost for the meals but donations are accepted. Individuals whose self-disclosed income is at or above 185% of the poverty level are encouraged to contribute at a level equal to the actual cost of services. Call the office for more information on these amounts.
No one will be refused a meal based on his or her inability or unwillingness to donate.