Dishing out meals for seniors

Libby Herbstritt

Dozens of older residents of Cameron County receive meals though a governmentsubsidized program operating through senior centers and the "meals on wheels" program.

Head dietician Libby Herbstritt of Sodexho in Ridgway, a contractor for the Office of Human Services in Ridgway, recently discussed the program during a program at the Emporium Senior Center. Sodexho is a French food service giant operating in 76 countries.

Upwards of 25 meal selections are packed in Ridgway and transported to Cameron County. The meals must meet state standards for nutrition and food safety.

Volunteers in Emporium deliver the meals to seniors' homes, usually between 11 a.m. and noon.

Anyone 60 or older who wants to eat at the senior center should call the day before to make a reservation. A donation is not required, but suggested contributions are based on guidelines available at the center. The average donation is approximately $2.00.

Diners under age 60 are also welcome to attend for a meal, at a fee of $4.00.

Senior center membership is not required, but a $6.00 annual membership entitles the bearer to several center activities, including card games; exercise classes at 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, led by trained volunteers; and a continental breakfast every weekday between 8 and 9:30.

Additional information is available from the Emporium Senior Center at 486-3707. Volunteers are needed for desk duty, kitchen work, meal deliveries and other responsibilities.