Providing sources of useful information and expertise to educate our community and connect people in need to available resources .
Meals on Wheels Erie – Veterans in Need Meal Program Contact : Jennifer Hoffman , Executive Director , jennifer @ mealsonwheelserie . org , 814.452.6930
In July 2020 , Meals On Wheels Erie introduced the Veterans in Need Meal Program , a meal delivery service completely funded through monetary donations from individuals , corporate entities , the Pennsylvania Veterans ’ Trust Fund , and local organizations like the Elks Lodge 67 , VFW Post 470 , the Erie Times-News Old Newsies , and the American Legion Posts . Veterans that qualify for this program receive a freshlymade meal for every day of the week , 365 days a year , at no charge . These chef prepared meals consist of a protein , starch , vegetable , side , dessert , and 2 % milk . The 4 week rotating menu keeps selections fresh and seasonal . To qualify , the veteran must provide proof of honorable discharge and demonstrated need . Referrals for this service are accepted from any Veterans ’ organization or concerned party .
In 2024 , through September , we have delivered 7,000 meals , at no cost , to homebound , senior veterans in need . The average age of our veteran clients is 80 years . By working in conjunction with veterans ’ organizations for referrals and funding , Meals on Wheels Erie is able to apprise social workers and the emergency contacts of any issues or needs , all because we offer a 5x weekly , compassionate check-in with meal delivery . Often the Meals on Wheel Erie volunteer is the only visitor each person may have on any given day , therefore are the first to notice changes in mood , health , or living conditions . At Meals on Wheels Erie , we tailor our delivery to each individual Veteran ’ s needs - Not only are dietary needs addressed , but mental health concerns like no loud knocking , buzzers , or shouting are noted on delivery route lists when necessary or requested . This is so much more than a “ thank you for your service .” This is an opportune way to show our homebound and elderly veterans that they are not forgotten and give peace of mind to their loved ones , while fulfilling the Meals on Wheels Erie mission to enable people to age at home with dignity by providing a compassionate check-in , nutritious meals , and grocery delivery .
Pennsylvania Soldiers ’ & Sailors ’ Home
The Pennsylvania Soldiers ’ & Sailors ’ Home ( PSSH ) is the oldest state veteran home in the Commonwealth serving veterans and their spouses . PSSH ’ s levels of care include skilled nursing , Alzheimer ’ s / dementia , and Personal Care . To meet the needs of our veterans the Home provides programs and services which are focused on helping veterans and their spouses remain as independent as possible and improve their ability to carry out activities of daily living . These services include Medical , Nursing , Social Work , Recreational Activities , and Physical Therapy . For more information on admissions , employment , and volunteer opportunities contact 814.871.4531 .
Music for Veterans Contact : Vinny Stefanelli / Director , Director @ music4veterans . org , music4veterans . org , facebook . com / Music4Veterans
Music for Veterans brings Veterans together in a fun , healthy environment of Music and Camaraderie . We meet throughout the week both in person and online where Veterans can play music , build friendships and find peace in their lives .
Here ' s what they ' re saying about the Music for Veterans Program :
“… Many Vets report that the music program brings them joy and helps them to relax , and it ' s become their “ go to ” in times of stress . It ’ s exciting to see Vets who were once isolated , now participating in community events , and even playing “ gigs ”. The camaraderie of the group is unique and extremely beneficial , providing a sense of belonging to Veterans that they often miss once they leave the military . Again , thank you for your time and effort - you are making a difference , one Veteran at a time . We appreciate all that you do and I know the Veterans do too !” - Saundra Sanders Vet Center Director
We ' d like to thank the individuals and organizations who have helped us provide the valuable services to our Veterans over the years . These services are free to all Veterans , so we depend on the support of our community . You can help us serve our Veterans by visiting our site at music4veterans . org / donate-1
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