BERKS COUNTY, Pa. – The Berks County Area Agency on Aging announced changes to its Home-Delivered Meals Program for older adults set to take effect next month.<\/p>\n
The program will transition from daily, ready-to-eat meals to frozen meals delivered twice each week starting July 1, according to a news release from BCAAA.<\/p>\n
The organization says the new format and schedule will offer greater flexibility to older adults in Berks County who receive home-delivered meals, as well as consistent access to nutritious food.<\/p>\n
Frozen meals offer peak freshness, reduce food waste, and provide flexibility for individuals to heat and enjoy meals on their own schedule, BCAAA says.<\/p>\n
The social services organization says that\u2019s a particularly valuable benefit for those with varying daily routines or specific health needs.<\/p>\n
BCAAA says it is launching the new program in conjunction with Berks Encore, Boyertown Area Multi-Service, and Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank.<\/p>\n
The meals will be freshly prepared by Helping Harvest\u2019s Community Kitchen, BCAAA says in its news release.<\/p>\n
The organization says Berks Encore and Boyertown Area Multi-Service will continue to coordinate all deliveries.<\/p>\n
\u201cProviding frozen meals twice a week helps us deliver the same high-quality nutrition our residents rely on, while improving reliability and strengthening our service model,\u201d said Jessica Jones, Director, Berks County Area Agency on Aging.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis change also ensures we can continue meal delivery safely during weather disruptions or other unexpected challenges.\u201d<\/p>\n
Key Features of the Updated Program<\/p>\n
\u2022 Twice weekly meal deliveries directly to the homes of eligible older adults<\/p>\n
\u2022 Frozen meals that can be safely stored and heated when needed<\/p>\n
\u2022 Nutritious, dietitian-reviewed meals that meet state and federal dietary standards<\/p>\n
\u2022 More flexibility for older adults to enjoy meals on their own schedule<\/p>\n
\u2022 Continued well-check during meal delivery<\/p>\n
BCAAA says staff and volunteers will maintain regular personal contact during deliveries to support safety and identify any emerging needs.<\/p>\n
The Home-Delivered Meals Program is available to Berks County residents ages 60 and older who have difficulty preparing meals on their own or leaving their homes.<\/p>\n