"March for Meals" highlights the importance of the Nutrition Program for older adults

Jodie Schwarz, resident of Easton and Massachusetts State Representative Lisa Field

Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) announced its participation in the 20th annual March for Meals Campaign. The month of March was recognized nationwide as the time when local Meals on Wheels programs come together to raise awareness and help demonstrate the importance of this vital program.

To spotlight this important service provided by the OCES Nutrition Program, Representative Lisa Field delivered meals to homebound seniors at Parker Terrace at the Easton Housing site.

“The services that OCES delivers to seniors in Easton is essential, and the demand for these services keeps growing,” said Representative Field. “It is a privilege to partner with OCES at Parker Terrace and see personally how the Meals on Wheels program positively effects lives while spending meaningful time with my constituents.”

The OCES Nutrition Program works year-round to help older adults stay healthy by providing nutritious meals. The OCES Nutrition Program provides essential food services including over 599,292 meals each year to consumers living within 23 communities in Greater Plymouth County. Through the Meals on Wheels program, over 600 volunteers for OCES’ Nutrition Program delivered over 2,200 nutritious meals daily to homebound older adults. OCES’ Nutrition Program also serves meals to active older adults at 18 community dining sites that offer opportunities for nutritious lunch, socialization and group activities.

“In March, we celebrate the successful history of Meals on Wheels and gather together to raise awareness in our community,” said Nicole M. Long, CEO of OCES. “With 12,000 individuals turning 60 each day, now is the time to spotlight this vital program so that we can continue to provide nutritious meals, friendly visits and safety checks to every older adult in need, enabling them to live healthier and remain independent in their own homes. We are grateful for Representative Field’s participation in the March for Meals Campaign. By working together, we aim to keep older adults living independently healthier at home and feeling more connected to their community.”

The OCES Meals on Wheels Program seeks volunteers all year long to assist in a variety of ways, including friendly visits and delivering meals. For more information about volunteering, call 508-584-1561. To make a donation to OCES’ Nutrition Program, visit OCES’ website at ocesma.org/get-involved/donate. Donations may also be made by check and mailed to OCES, 144 Main Street, Brockton, MA 02301.

Meals on Wheels are available to qualified residents in Plymouth County, 60 years or older, who are homebound.  Call 508-584-1561 to begin the qualification process or visit the Old Colony Elder Services website at ocesma.org.