Ancrum: NCCOA has 'boots on the ground' delivering free meals to Nassau County seniors

In the wake of COVID-19, the Nassau County Council on Aging is helping make sure seniors throughout Nassau County have balanced, nutritious meals, according to a news release.

“Our ‘boots on the ground’ effort is ready to deliver meals to Nassau County seniors,” said Janice Ancrum, NCCOA president & CEO, in the release. “During this challenging time, many seniors do not feel comfortable leaving their home. This means they may go without food. Help is on the way. … NCCOA staff and volunteers are here to ensure the safety and well-being of this vulnerable population.”

Any Nassau County senior may request five meals at this time. Additional meals will be available upon request. To request meals, they should follow these steps:

1. Call NCCOA at (904) 261-0701.

2. Tell the staff member you would like to request meals.

3. NCCOA will complete an intake form that includes your name, address, phone number, and birth date.

4. Your meal delivery will be scheduled.

“The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners is providing financial support to NCCOA to enable us to offer this free service to our seniors,” Ancrum said. “County Manager Mike Mullin called us immediately to ask how the county could support our efforts. During this financially unsure time, we are extremely grateful to the County Commission and City of Fernandina.”

NCCOA’s Fernandina Beach and Hilliard Life Centers are closed to the general public until further notice. When it is not providing services to seniors at the centers, NCCOA does not receive state funding and is looking for financial support from the community. If you are interested in making a donation, contact Wallace Bennett, development director, at (904) 775-5481.