Agencies providing meals for Ohio elderly

Submitted information

COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) is distributing $8.8 million across the state to meet the growing demand for meal assistance by older Ohioans impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) public health emergency.

ODA distributed the funds, provided through the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act, to the state’s 12 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) to support meals programming for older Ohioans at highest risk for malnutrition and hunger.

“This funding will help us reach an even greater number of older Ohioans struggling to meet their daily nutritional needs during this extraordinary time,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine.

“Thanks to these dollars, our AAAs will be able to address waiting lists, expand the number of people receiving home-delivered meals, reach those who previously participated in congregate meals, and provide additional meals per day or per week,” said Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel J. McElroy.

Ohio’s AAAs respond to the needs of older adults as advocates, planners, and funders. They provide education, information and referral services, and work with public and private sectors to help older adults with home and community-based long-term care.

For the latest on COVID-19, visit the Ohio Department of Health website at coronavirus.ohio.gov, or call 833.4.ASK.ODH.