FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ERIE COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES AND FEEDMORE OF WNY CELEBRATE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF CONGREGATE DINING PROGRAM
October 2, 2024
Contact: Aislyn McQueen
Department of Senior Services
ERIE COUNTY, NY – The Erie County Department of Senior Services, in partnership with FeedMore WNY, is proud to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the “Stay Fit” Congregate Dining Program. For five decades, this important initiative has provided nutritious meals and fostered community engagement for older adults throughout the county.
To mark this milestone, the department recently hosted special free luncheons at all of their participating congregate dining locations—rural, urban, and suburban—throughout Erie County. FeedMore WNY, a key partner in the program's success, generously covered the suggested meal contribution for each celebration.
The first ever congregate dining site was opened in 1974 at the Monsignor Geary Apartments on the East side of Buffalo. Shortly after, the Friendship House in Lackawanna opened its doors to older adults being the first south-town location. The program has grown immensely since its inception providing hot and nutritious meals at over 45 locations.
The Stay Fit Dining Program has served over 15 million meals to individuals aged 60 and older, promoting both physical health and social well-being. Available Monday through Friday at noon, the program offers hot, nutritious meals that meet at least one-third of the USDA’s Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for vitamins, minerals, protein, and other key nutrients. The program not only nourishes seniors but also provides opportunities for social interaction, contributing to improved mental health.
This event celebrated the longevity and impact of the Congregate Dining Program, which began as part of the Older Americans Act and is funded through the New York State Office for the Aging.
"We are proud of the work done through this program over the past fifty years," said Commissioner of Senior Services Angela Marinucci. "It’s not just about food; it’s about nourishing the community, providing social opportunities, and promoting the health and wellbeing of older adults throughout Erie County. We are thankful for all the staff, volunteers, and partners that make this program successful.”
Erie County's congregate dining program has been providing eligible residents access to healthy meals for half-a-century. It is a successful program because it creates opportunities for older adults to enjoy delicious food and embrace camaraderie with their peers," said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “I thank everyone involved with the dining program who have helped in the past to ensure seniors enjoy nutritional meals and good company. I also encourage those who currently play a role in helping to improve the quality of life for older adults by helping to prepare and serve these meals to continue their efforts in kitchens and dining halls across Erie County. Your work is greatly appreciated."
The Department of Senior Services looks forward to improving their congregate dining program in the future, always striving to serve the older adults of Erie County in the best way possible.
For more information:
Erie County Senior Services : https://www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/
FeedMore WNY: https://www.feedmorewny.org/
