Seniors get some help in preparing for winter
Ocean County's meals on wheels provider has teamed up with the Ocean County Health Department and Office of Senior Services in getting information to participants on being prepared for winter weather.

Community Services Inc., which delivers congregate and home delivered meals for Ocean County, has provided brochures to more than 1,200 individuals outlining how to get ready for winter weather.

"Getting information out to those who are frail and elderly is key to their safety this winter," said Ocean County Freeholder Director John P. Kelly, who serves as director of law and public safety. "I commend these agencies along with Freeholder Joe Vicari, who serves as liaison to senior services, in their efforts to provide helpful information to our seniors."

Vicari noted that emergency preparedness brochures were distributed at the 10 nutrition sites throughout Ocean County by the site managers.

"I want to thank Community Services Inc. for helping to get this information out," Vicari said. "The brochures will be a helpful tool for our seniors and their families."

Freeholder Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Health Department, said the brochure lists general medical supplies, general emergency supplies and emergency food pantry supplies that can be assembled before an emergency strikes.

"We always recommend that our residents be proactive when it comes to their safety," Little said. "For many of our seniors who have special needs this is particularly valuable information."

In a letter to participants in the meals programs, it notes, "for older adults with mobility problems, emergencies of any kind present a special challenge.

"Preparing now for likely power outages and interruptions to meal delivery services due to weather related storms can help ensure your safety and well-being this winter."

Senior advocates recommend recipients read the "Emergency Preparedness for Seniors" brochure and then discuss emergency readiness with a family member or a friend who can help gather the needed supplies and information.

If family or friends are unable to assist, seniors should contact the local senior outreach agency.

CSI staff and volunteer drivers distributed the cover letter and brochure to each home delivered meals client along with the emergency meal box upon the client's request.

"In Ocean County, we have more than 160,000 seniors living here," Vicari said. "It's important that each and every one of them know assistance and help is always available to them no matter what the circumstances."

For additional information on the emergency preparedness brochure contact the Office of Senior Services at (732) 929- 2091 or (800) 668-4899.