Meals On Wheels In Flagler Expands Services To Help Pets

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Flagler County, FL - The Flagler County Meals on Wheels program has expanded its services to help seniors with pets, thanks to a recently received grant.

“The funding will be used to provide food, supplies and care for Flagler clients who have pets, all of which can be financially and physically burdensome,” said Senior Services Manager Joanne Hinkel.

Citing an article in "Aging and Mental Health," Hinkel said seniors with pets are 36% less likely to be lonely and have 21% fewer doctor visits.

The $1,000 grant that made this expansion possible was issued through the "Meals on Wheels Loves Pets" initiatives, and through a donation from the Banfield Charitable Trust.

162 Meals on Wheels programs have been granted a total of around $300,000 this year. The program has received $2.1 million since October 2015 when the administrative responsibilities for the Pet Assistance Grant Program were turned over to Meals on Wheels America.

“Along with its Meals on Wheels program, Flagler County Senior Services provides non-medical, in-home services – including homemaking, personal care, and respite – adult day care, transportation, case management and congregate dining and recreation at the George Wickline Senior Center,” said Community Services Director Joe Mayer.

Senior Services also provides counseling, information, referrals, and an energy assistance program.

“Flagler County staff members are always looking for ways to bring more services to our residents,” said Flagler County Chair Barbara Revels. “We are fortunate to have such passionate employees.”

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Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2016.