Participants at the March 27th Loaves and Fishes Luncheon at Niccolls Memorial Presbyterian Church in Old Forge were treated to an informational presentation by Kathy Fox, director, and Melissa Lanphier, caseworker, of the Herkimer County Office for the Aging (OFA).
The pair of experts on senior-related issues were invited by Mary Brophy-Moore, Town of Webb Councilwoman.
Loaves and Fishes luncheons are co-sponsored by Niccolls Memorial, St. Anthony’s and St. Bartholomew’s churches.
They welcome all community members to get together, while encouraging that a dish be brought along to pass.
Fox and Lanphier described a number of beneficial healthcare programs that OFA offers to Herkimer County residents ages 60 and above.
Lanphier discussed the Meals on Wheels program that is available Monday through Friday in the Old Forge and surrounding areas.
“Since the Meals on Wheels site is so distant from this area, everything will be delivered frozen and once every two weeks,” Lanphier said.
Lanphier also noted that OFA provides a registered dietician to those uncertain about their nutritional needs.
In-Home services including housekeeping, shopping and personal care are offered to those that need them.
Transportation services are available locally by the Community Transportation Service (CTS).
“We get reports every week about this service… I think it’s just fabulous,” Lanphier said.
Fox also reported that since the Pro ACT passed, Herkimer County now offers a Discount Prescription Program.
“It’s a card that you bring to your pharmacy and you get a discounted or possibly a free prescription,” she said.
Yet, these service are not without a substantial cost.
“Funding from federal and state sources is not nearly enough to provide care and services to all in need, donations are greatly appreciated,” Fox said.
Other programs provided include Legal Aid, HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), HIICAP (Health Insurance Informa-tion, Counseling & Assistance), The Job Pool Program, Caregiver Services, Congregate Meals, NY Connects, and many more.
For more information, questions or concerns you may call OFA at (315) 867-1121, email at hcofa@herkimercounty.org or visit their website at www.herkimercounty.org, click departments and then click OFA.