Office for the Aging celebrates 50 years in Orleans County

Photo by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Orleans County Legislator Fred Miller presents a proclamation on Tuesday to Office for the Aging leaders Melissa Blanar, left, the director; and Meghan Bevins, assistant director.

The County Legislature commemorated the OFA’s 50 years in Orleans County. The office opened in may 1975. It has expanded to 14 employees and now has its fourth director, Melissa Blanar. The OFA has grown through federal and state grants, legislators said.

Some of the services include home-delivered meals, congregate meals, nutrition counseling and education, health promotion and wellness, evidence-based interventions, respite and caregiver support, legal services, NY Connects information and referral, health insurance counseling and assistance programs, and transportation coordination for medical appointments.

The OFA also has many dedicated volunteers giving “countless hours” to support senior citizens.

“The Orleans County Legislature hereby recognizes and commends the Office for the Aging’s exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment over the past five decades,” the proclamation states. “Their tireless efforts have not only enriched the quality of life for countless individuals but have set an enduring standard of compassionate service.  As we celebrate this extraordinary milestone, we express our deepest gratitude for their invaluable contributions and congratulate them on 50 years of exemplary service to older adults.”

The OFA welcomes people 60 and older to the Spring Jubilee on May 16 to celebrate “Older American’s Month.”

Call the OFA at (585) 589-3191 for information and tickets.