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Meals on Wheels Continues to Serve Seniors During COVID-19 Outbreak

Homebound senior citizens in Union County continue to be served during the COVID-19 Pandemic through the Meals on Wheels program. The program is funded through the Union County Department of Human Services Division on Aging.

“Eligible seniors have continued to receive nutritious meals during the COVID-19 out-break through Meals on Wheels,” said Free-holder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “This program is a lifeline, and on behalf of the Freeholder Board I thank all of the volunteers who make it possible.”

In order to comply with social distancing policies put in place during the pandemic, Meals on Wheels has modified its procedures to provide for contactless delivery.  Meals on Wheels volunteers assemble, de-liver, and personally greet homebound seniors, many who have no other human contact during the day. All drivers and deliverers wear gloves and masks, as do the volunteers in kitchens where meals are prepared. From March 18 to May 6, 32,559 meals have been delivered through Meals on Wheels in Union County. In the event of delivery interruption, seniors have been given a two week supply of emergency meals.

Residents wishing to apply for Meals on Wheels are urged to contact the program directly at 908-486-5100. The applicant will be interviewed to see if they meet program criteria.

Under the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act, Union County has received $399,000 to fund meals through September 2021. The Union County Division on Aging anticipates additional funding from the federal CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act) for food, home and community based services, including respite services for caregivers.

Union County is observing the national Administration for Community Living’s Older Americans Month through the Division of Aging. The May 2020 Older Americans Month theme is “Make Your Mark”. To learn more about Older Americans Month please visit https://acl.gov/oam/2020/older-americans-month-2020.

Residents seeking additional help or information may call the Division of Aging at 908-527-4870 or 908-527-4858. Spanish speakers may call 908-527-4863. Residents may also email the Division of Aging’s Action Line atDHSAction@ucnj.org.