FLUSHING — The Ohio Department of Aging has awarded Area Agency on Aging Region 9 additional funding for a new, short-term program to provide meals for older adults affected by the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency.

The Staying Healthy program engages Area Agencies on Aging and local small-business restaurants to deliver free meals to seniors in our communities.

“By investing in locally owned and operated restaurants, we can meet increased demand for older adults who need meal support as they continue to shelter from the virus,” said Ursel McElroy, director of the Ohio Department of Aging.

“We recognize Area Agency on Aging Region 9 as a local leader who can bring together multiple sectors to protect vulnerable older adults.”

“We will use this funding to engage with new community partners to serve our neighbors who are most in need,” added Jim Endly, CEO and president of AAA9.

“It’s a win-win-win. Our seniors, our local businesses, and their employees all ultimately benefit from this innovative approach. We are excited to work with Carpenter’s Pizzeria (of Flushing) to launch our initiative.”

Participating restaurants must have 50 or fewer employees, be able to produce meals that meet industry-standard nutritional guidelines, and be able to deliver meals to participants, either directly or through community partners.

Area Agency on Aging Region 9 will direct the program locally with a focus on serving seniors with the greatest social and economic needs, such as those with low incomes, who live in rural areas, with severe disabilities, with limited English-speaking ability, or with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders.

Funding for Staying Healthy is provided by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

For more information regarding the Staying Healthy Program or any other services offered by Area Agency on Aging Region 9 call 800-945-4250.