County program also seeks to help local restaurant economy
In an effort to help the most vulnerable community, the state's "Great Plates Delivered" program was announced this week.
With the support of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors in association with the Department of Workforce Development, Aging and Community Services (WDACS) and the Office of Emergency Management (FEMA), three meals may be provided at home. to the day to the angelinos of the third age that qualify.
Otto Solórzano, acting director of WDACS, said the program also helps stimulate the economy by offering jobs to local restaurants.
"Those who work in the hotel and restaurant industry have been one of the most affected, so we are getting restaurants that can cook these meals and distribute them to the elderly who are in their homes," he explained.
The program will be in charge of providing meals seven days a week and distribution will be made every two or three days, depending on the transportation system of the restaurants, Solórzano said.
He added that the temporary program, paid at 75% by FEMA, is scheduled only until June 10; although it is likely to continue at the request of the state – which contributes 19% of total food. Los Angeles County contributes the remaining 6%.
"This could continue for another 60 days after June 10," said Solórzano.
Appreciate the help
Gloria Medina, 65, who started receiving food from this program this week, considers it a good help.
The Rosemead resident takes care of her 88-year-old mother, who suffered paralysis and cannot move. For this reason, he says, it is difficult for him to go to the supermarket since he does not want to leave his mother alone. And although he sometimes orders at Wal-Mart, he adds that he has to do it with up to two days of
anticipation.
She said that she received food for four days, which she can put in the refrigerator, and that she only asked for a meal plan for her, because her mother eats very little.
"The food they brought us breakfast is delicious." In addition, he commented that they gave him enough water. "Milk and fruit too," he said.
Medina added that the state, county and FEMA initiative is a good collaboration and a good way to help those most in need.
Gloria Juárez, 63, who lives with her husband – both disabled – also started receiving food this week.
"We are very grateful that the state is helping us," he said, although he did mention that some foods were very small and that, sometimes, "the instructions for heating them are not exact."
However, he said there is time for improvement, as many restaurants are barely adjusting to making meals that can stay fresh and taste good for days.
Los Angeles County is committed to partnering with restaurants and food service providers, and plans to include small neighborhood establishments.
To the extent possible, the county will assign participants to restaurants located in the same city or neighborhood.
"The Great Plates Delivered program will allow us to expand the capacity of our current senior meal program so that they can easily adhere to distancing and infection control protocols," said Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solís, in a statement.
Solórzano said that people interested in participating must meet certain requirements including being over the age of 60 who are at high risk of contagion, as determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To find out if you qualify, call 211 or visit 211.org
