Ernest and Michel handing out meals
In celebration of March for Meals, the Ontario Community Support Association (OCSA) is raising awareness of the important role meal delivery programs play in fighting food insecurity among seniors. Local organizations across Ontario, including Carefor Health & Community Services in Renfrew County, are focusing on the need for community support and funding for these services.
Food insecurity is a growing issue in Renfrew County, with one in four families facing challenges. Seniors, in particular, struggle due to fixed incomes and limited access to transportation. Carefor’s meal delivery program helps address this by providing nutritious, locally sourced meals to seniors. Meals are prepared by Griffith Farm using pasture-raised beef and free-run chickens.
Ernest Boutilier, a local widower, shared how the program helped him after his wife’s passing when he was eating unhealthy meals like hot dogs and bologna. “I started gaining too much weight, and I was concerned about my nutrition,” he said.
The March for Meals campaign aims to raise funds to support programs like Carefor’s, ensuring that seniors have access to healthy meals. Janna Wood, program coordinator, said, “This campaign is about more than just providing food – it’s about helping seniors maintain their health and independence.”
To donate or support the campaign, visit www.carefor.ca or call 613-749-7557 ext 2298. Volunteers interested in helping with transportation can contact Janna Wood at jwood@carefor.ca.
(Written by: Emma Butler)