West NY News

Chautauqua County marked the opening of a new Dining Out Program location at Fredonia First Methodist Church on Friday. This is the first site in the county dedicated to providing older adults with hot meals and social opportunities twice a week.

The event included information tables, entertainment, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with local officials and community members. Lunch was served at noon, followed by cake and social activities.

“This program embodies our mission to create connections and reduce isolation among older adults,” said Dana Corwin, Director of the Office for Aging Services. “The Fredonia First Methodist Church is the perfect partner to help us expand this important initiative. Their commitment to service and creating a community around the table is inspiring.”

The Dining Out Program is part of the Older Americans Act Senior Nutrition Program, which aims to combat food insecurity and malnutrition while promoting health and wellness among seniors. With Fredonia First Methodist Church joining, over 800 seniors in Chautauqua County now benefit from this program, which provided more than 22,000 meals last year.

Pastor Annette Puleff played a key role in bringing the program to Fredonia. She stated, “As a former restaurant owner and cook, I’ve always believed in the power of food to bring people together. Hosting the Dining Out Program at Fredonia First Methodist Church allows us to serve our community in a deeply meaningful way.”

In addition to meals, various social activities will be available before lunch at the Fredonia site, including games, puzzles, interest-based groups, and wellness programs like “Moving for Better Balance.” The site will also host initiatives from the Office for Aging Services such as SNAP-Ed Nutrition and WISE.

“The Dining Out Program is an invaluable asset to our county,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “This initiative not only addresses nutritional needs but also fosters the connections and camaraderie that are vital to our residents’ well-being. I’m thrilled to see Fredonia First Methodist Church join this effort.”

Open every Wednesday and Friday with lunch served at noon, those aged 60 or older can participate after completing a nutrition risk screening assessment through the Office for Aging Services. There is no fixed cost; however, participants are encouraged to contribute $5 per meal.

For more details or registration inquiries, community members may contact the Office for Aging Services at 716-753-4582. Volunteers interested in assisting at the Fredonia site can reach Pastor Annette Puleff at 716-679-1513.

This event highlights collaborative efforts between Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services, Fredonia First Methodist Church, and Administration on Community Living as plans continue for further expansion of this program next year.