Meals on Wheels March for Meals on Southern Tier Close Up

Broome County's Meals on Wheels program is highlighted on this week's edition of the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up.

Broome County Office for Aging Nutrition Services Coordinator Rita Fluharty talks about the program that meets nutrition and social needs of a special population in the region.

Fluharty says typically, people think of Meals on Wheels "clients" as being home-bound elderly, the service is also available to others who need temporary assistance, like those who are recovering from a surgery or other medical condition that impairs their ability to get around.

While dozens of volunteers sign up for shifts that can be a little as a few hours on a occasional basis to as much as almost daily, new help is always needed along with contributions from individuals, businesses and organizations.

Fluharty says those who become involved in Meals on Wheels are often touched in profound ways by the people they meet and strong bonds are formed.  Some volunteers are even credited with saving lives when they notice "something a little off" when they visit one of their residents.

Volunteers can drive or accompany the driver on calls, are screened by Office for Aging and report back to supervisors ensuring the health and safety of those in the program.

For more information on Meals on Wheels, contact Office for Aging at (607) 778-2411 or check out the website at www.gobroomecounty.com/senior.

Southern Tier Close Up is heard Sunday at 6 a.m. on 99.1 The Whale.