As part of 2023 Chairman Initiatives, “Building a Stronger Union County,” the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Division on Aging, is proud to announce the launch of the 2023 Social 60+ Program for qualifying senior Union County residents.
“After seeing the success of the pilot program last year, we have decided to launch the Social 60+ program again for 2023, which will include even more restaurants that seniors can visit and enjoy,” said Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “Seniors across Union County are active, engaged in their communities, and looking for ways to get out and enjoy the social scene with their friends and this program is a great way for them to do that, while enjoying a nutritionally balanced meal. As part of my Chairman initiatives, this is just another way we are taking care of our senior community, all while supporting local restaurants.”
Social 60+ was designed to bring the benefits of a healthy meal and socialization into the community for older adults in Union County. It is open to all Union County residents age 60 and over, with the exception of active County employees.
Participating restaurants include: the Garden Restaurant, located at 943 Magie Avenue in Union, The Tavern at Ash Brook, located at 1210 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains and Mambo Cuban Restaurant, located at 2185 US-22 W in Union.
Each participating restaurant has agreed to accept a voucher from the Union County Division on Aging in exchange for meal options designated by the restaurant and approved by a Nutritionist. To participate, one must be a Union County resident 60 years and over; agree to attend a nutrition education program offered by the Division on Aging at least once a quarter and provide all necessary information during intake.
“This senior dining program both expands access to nutritional meals as well as adds to community engagement,” said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of Human Services. “This is just another way to keep our older adult community active and there is no better way than breaking bread in a restaurant of their choosing with their peers. I would like to thank our Division on Aging for their constant efforts to improve our seniors’ quality of life and build a stronger community.”
All qualified residents are invited and encouraged to enjoy a meal through this program. The voucher process is done via the phone with the Division on Aging, once the intake is complete and approved, residents will receive their vouchers by mail. Vouchers must be used by 12/31/23. Expired vouchers will not be honored. Participants may select from a set menu of choices that have been designated to meet the Older Americans Act (OAA) standards of one-third recommended dietary allowances and compliance with the OAA dietary guidelines.
For the Social 60+ restaurant voucher, please call the Union County Division on Aging, at (908) 527-4870. Please visit www.ucnj.org/aging for information on any of their programs.
For more information about this or other programs offered, please call the Union County Division on Aging with any questions, toll-free at 1-888-280-8226.