Media Contact: 
Kathie Sizemore: (216) 441-8813; kathleen.sizemore@jfs.ohio.gov 
Mary Louise Madigan: (216) 698-2521; mlmadigan@cuyahogacounty.us

Program to Offer More Home-Delivered Meals for Older Adults in Need

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – As part of an $800,000 expansion this past summer, the Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services (DSAS) has additional funding to assist seniors and disabled adults in Cuyahoga County with more home delivered-meals. Meal assistance was one of the most requested services over the past year, with DSAS providing over 270,000 meals to seniors.

“Food insecurity can occur due to lack of income, disability, inability to cook, and dental issues,” said County Executive Armond Budish. “Home delivered meals supply balanced nutrition in a readily available form, making it easier for older residents to stay nourished and healthy.”

DSAS’ Options for Independent Living Program assists older residents in staying independent in their home by providing options like home delivered meals, medical transportation, a personal emergency response service, homemaking, light personal care assistance and more. The popular home-delivered meal option brings nutritious, cooked meals to clients, and can include vegan, low-sugar or salt, and pureed options upon request.

“Because the Options program operates on a sliding fee scale based on income, clients can pay much less for prepared meals than they would spend for ingredients at the grocery store,” said Options Program Manager Cynthia Mason. “Once qualified and enrolled, Options clients generally receive their first meal delivery within two weeks.”

Last year, the Options program served nearly 2,000 individuals, providing 270,352 home delivered meals, 65,900 hours of homemaking, 9,363 hours of personal care and 7,011 medical transport trips. The program also provided emergency response systems, grab bar installation and chore services.

The Options for Independent Living Program is open to County residents 60 years of age or older or aged 18-59 living with a disability. Fees are based on a sliding scale determined by income. For more information on Options, or any of DSAS’ programs, contact 216-420-6700 or visit dsas.cuyahogacounty.us.