About this program
We are helping seniors throughout Eddy county to help themselves.
The Senior Citizens Program operates within Eddy county. Services provided for individuals 60 and older include: transportation, congregate meals, and home delivered meals. These services are provided with federal and state funding. Local funding is sought to meet program-funding requirements. In addition, donations are encouraged from participants in order to ensure services are continued.
Nutritiously well-balanced meals that meet 1/3 of the daily food requirements are provided five days a week at designated senior centers. The same nutritious meals are delivered to homes for clients who are home bound and/or cannot come to the center for meals. Transportation is provided for eligible seniors to and from the senior centers. In addition, arrangements can be made at the senior center for transportation to and from medical appointments, shopping, and other designated appointments.
The Senior Citizens Program at SNMCAC also operates Adult Day Care/Respite service facilities in Artesia and Carlsbad. The services are provided through partnerships with local government and private foundations. Funding is provided by Eddy County, City of Artesia, Community Services Block Grant, United Way of South Eddy County, and two local foundations. Adult Day Care/Respite provides the opportunity for seniors to avoid early institutionalization by allowing caregivers a safe place to leave their loved one in order to maintain employment or conduct their daily activities. Services depend upon dedicated volunteers; it is the mainstream of the program’s existence.
Program impact
Last year, 999 senior citizens in Eddy county received services:
- 36,606 congregate meals were served
- 75,308 home delivered meals were served
- 6,533 transportation trips were provided
- 91,273 pounds of food were distributed
Cost of Services
A recommended donation accompanies the services offered by the Senior Citizens Program. However, no eligible person will be turned away due to inability to pay for the services.