From WOOD COUNTY COMMITTEE ON AGING
The Wood County Committee on Aging will join Meals on Wheels programs across the country in celebrating Community Champions Week, formerly known as March for Meals, from March 16-20. This annual recognition event highlights the importance of community-based nutrition programs and the support needed to help older adults remain healthy, safe, and independent at home.
Throughout the week, WCCOA will welcome local elected officials, law enforcement officers, fire and EMS personnel, and other community leaders as guest volunteers. These community champions will take part in home delivered meal routes and will also visit congregate meal sites across Wood County. They will engage with older adults and learn about the impact of nutrition, socialization, and community connection.
Home delivered meal recipients may see a different driver than usual during Community Champions Week as these guest volunteers assist with deliveries and connect with the individuals WCCOA serves.
“Community Champions Week provides an incredible opportunity to highlight the essential role our program plays in reducing hunger and isolation among older adults,” said Alisha Nenadovich, executive director of WCCOA. “We are grateful to our community leaders for taking time to visit our congregate sites, deliver meals, and advocate for the needs of individuals throughout Wood County.”
Established in 1972, when the Older American Act was amended to include community nutrition programs, Meals on Wheels now serves people across the nation who wish to remain independent in their homes. Despite this progress, many continue to face hunger, malnutrition, and loneliness. Community Champions Week shines a light on these challenges while celebrating the volunteers and partners who make this vital work possible.
For more information about Community Champions Week or ways to support WCCOA’s mission, contact 419-353-5661 or www.wccoa.net.
