Delaware County announced on May 8 that it will immediately assume responsibility for providing senior meal services after Delaware Opportunities, Inc. ceased all operations of its senior meals program with no prior notice.
The change comes as Delaware County works to ensure that residents aged 60 and older, along with their spouses, continue receiving essential nutrition services without interruption. The county confirmed that all six congregate meal sites and home-delivered meals would be provided as scheduled on Friday, May 8 and moving forward. Meal sites will open at 12:30 PM instead of the usual 11:30 AM, and volunteers have been organized to deliver meals as normal.
“Given the abrupt and immediate cancellation of senior meals by Delaware Opportunities Inc. Delaware County will move forward immediately with our plan to take senior meals service in house rather than waiting until 2027,” the county said in a statement. “Delaware County Office for the Aging will be operating these services, and no seniors will be left without meals or the important services they receive as a benefit of this program. This program is a priority to the Delaware County Board of Supervisors, and we are committed to ensuring our seniors as cared for in the absolute best manner possible.”
The decision follows an unexpected announcement from Delaware Opportunities Inc., which had previously contracted with the county to provide nutrition support for older adults. In response, county officials acted quickly overnight to prevent any lapse in service.
Delaware County serves rural communities in New York’s Catskill region through departments such as public works, health, social services, sheriff operations, and programs supporting economic development and community initiatives; it operates under a Board of Supervisors representing its towns according to the official website.
Looking ahead, officials say that bringing these nutrition programs under direct county management is intended to provide stability for seniors who rely on these vital services.
