Foodnet, Cayuga Health establish new weekly community dining site for seniors

ITHACA, N.Y. — Cayuga Health and Foodnet Meals on Wheels have announced a new partnership that intends to bring food and connection for senior citizens throughout Tompkins County. 

Starting on Oct. 23, the two organizations will collaborate to provide weekly community dining lunches served at Cayuga Health’s location at The Shops at Ithaca Mall in the former Sears location. Doors will open each Thursday at 11 a.m. and lunch will be served from 12-12:30 p.m.

The meals will be served at no charge for those eligible, though donations to support the program are welcome. Anyone 60 or older is eligible to participate, but attendees must register beforehand by calling Foodnet by 3 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the meal distribution. 

The aim of the program, according to a press release, is to expand health equity and food security for older residents of the area, with the added benefit of creating a space where people can meet and connect over food. 

“The Community Dining program provides space and healthy food for our older neighbors from throughout Tompkins County to enjoy a meal and socialize with others,” said Aly Evans, Foodnet’s executive director. “Cayuga Health is a fantastic partner in this endeavor because we share the goal of improving social determinants of health for the communities that we serve.” 

The program is part of Tompkins County Office for the Aging’s Senior Nutrition Program, which Foodnet operates through a contract with the county.

The Ithaca Mall location will become Foodnet’s third community dining site, alongside the Titus Towers apartments, where meals are served each weekday, and the Slaterville Volunteer Fire Company on Tuesdays. 

Meals on Wheels is the only organization locally that prepares and delivers hot meals directly to clients, though the press release states that the new program creates “a new, accessible option in the Lansing area” made possible by Cayuga Health’s support. 

The lunches will additionally feature educational sessions on avoiding scams, general nutrition and healthy habits. 

Cayuga Health Director of Health Equity Lara Parrilla said the collaboration fits well with Cayuga Health’s mission. 

“By opening our space at The Shops at Ithaca Mall, we are helping create a welcoming environment where older adults can access health food, meaningful conversation and critical health resources close to home,” Parrilla said in the announcement.

Correction: This article has been updated to more accurately reflect which agency funds the Community Dining congregate food program.

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