Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) joined 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 welcomed local elected officials, law enforcement officers, fire and EMS personnel, and other community leaders as special guest volunteers. These “community champions” took part in Home Delivered Meal routes and also visited congregate meal sites across Wood County, engaging directly with older adults and learning about the impact of nutrition, socialization and community connection.
“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, WCCOA executive director. “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 Americans 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, Nenadovich said.
For more information about Community Champions Week or ways to support WCCOA’s mission, contact Nenadovich at 419-353-5661 or visit www.wccoa.net.
