RADFORD, Va. (WFXR) — The ‘NRV Agency on Aging‘ wrapped up its big fundraiser, “Grass and Grill.”
The goal was to raise money, and awareness, for their meal delivery program that serves seniors across the region– Monday through Friday.
The organization says the number of balanced and nutritional meal home delivery requests has doubled since the pandemic.
“We provide meals to around 400 people a day throughout the New River Valley,” said Tina King, Executive Director of the organization.
King explains how important donations are to keep their meal delivery program alive.
“Most people want to age at home and in their communities, so our services are designed to do that. We always feel there are never enough to meet all the needs,” said King.
The program is completely free, recipients must be at least 60 years old and have an income at the poverty level. Those who have an income over the poverty level pay a sliding scale fee after deductions are given for medical expenses.
Recipients receive a hot meal, fresh seasonal vegetables, and ‘shelf-stable meals,’ as a supplemental choice during holidays and inclement weather.
Although, that’s not all.
“In the more remote areas, because of the geographical issues, we do provide frozen meals,” said King.
Even with government funding, which King says she is grateful for, the pandemic created challenges.
King explains prices for hot meals have gone up about $1.25 over the last two years, while frozen and shelf-stable options went up about a dollar in that same time period.
It’s an investment the sponsors at the event say is vitally important.
“Our tagline is ‘Where people bank for good,’ and that is not just a slogan. We really invest in our community, all of our people care about being present in our community,” said one sponsor of Freedom First Bank.
CEO of LewisGale Pulaski, Sean Pressman, says they are in support of anyone who drives health and is passionate about that.
To see more of the sponsors and learn more about donations you can visit their website.
