Neuhaus Deliveres Meals to Homebound Seniors

CORNWALL – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus participated in the Office for the Aging’s Big Wheels Deliver Meals Program on Friday morning, bringing meals to homebound seniors in Cornwall.

Deputy County Executive Wayne Booth, District Attorney David Hoovler, Office for the Aging Director AnnMarie Maglione and several other County officials and dignitaries also took part in the event.
“We hope that the attention that the Big Wheels Deliver Meals Program received today inspires many others in our communities to volunteer,” Neuhaus said. “Even if you can volunteer only once a month, it makes a difference. The Office for the Aging and I are always looking to reach out to our County’s older adults with a variety of resources. I enjoyed taking part in the Big Wheels Deliver Meals event this morning and having a chance to speak with some of our seniors.”

Each day, Orange County’s Home Delivered Meals program provides fresh, nutritionally-balanced meals to approximately 700 people at senior centers and personal homes. While delivering meals, volunteers check on the seniors, many of whom are homebound, and enjoy their daily visit.

Neuhaus was joined on his delivery route by Hank Sawoska, 80, of New Windsor. Sawoska has volunteered with the Home Delivered Meals program for more than a decade.

“We are delighted that County Executive Neuhaus and so many other elected officials have taken an interest in the Big Wheels Deliver Meals Program,” Maglione said. “It serves as a wonderful opportunity to highlight how important the Office for the Aging’s Home Delivered Meal Program is to seniors in communities throughout Orange County. The contact with the volunteers and staff who deliver the meals is very meaningful to the recipients, providing friendship and social interaction.”

Added Hoovler, who delivered meals in Chester: “I always look forward to this wonderful event. It’s an honor to go out and meet those who volunteer so much of their precious time. It’s also great to meet the seniors who have contributed, and continue to contribute, so much to Orange County.”

The Office for the Aging is committed to meeting the special service needs of Orange County’s senior population, their families and friends who care for them, by offering services, either directly or through sub-contracts, designed to maintain the quality of life of those aged 60 and over. Last year, the Office of the Aging provided approximately 240,000 delicious and nutritionally-balanced meals to about 1,200 senior citizens in Orange County.

Volunteers for Orange County’s Home Delivered Meals program are needed from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Monday through Friday. Schedules can be arranged to meet the volunteer’s availability. To volunteer or to apply for meal delivery, contact Office for the Aging at 615-3703.